Austin Ekeler is expected to rejoin Washington before Week 4, provided he passes a physical. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the former Los Angeles Chargers running back has recovered from a torn Achilles and is heading back to the Commanders.
Ekeler signed with Washington as a free agent after the 2023 season and spent the next two years with the team. His 2025 season ended in Week 2 with the Achilles injury, which required an extended rehabilitation period. He met with the Carolina Panthers the prior week, but that visit did not lead to a contract.
Before joining Washington, Ekeler played his first seven NFL seasons with Los Angeles. He led the league in total touchdowns in each of the 2021 and 2022 seasons, producing 20 scores in the first year and 18 in the second. He has not been chosen for a Pro Bowl.
The Commanders are looking for running-game assistance and may not have starting quarterback Jayden Daniels for an unspecified length of time, according to the source. The Chargers began Week 4 at 0-3 after a 24-16 loss to Buffalo in Week 3. Los Angeles forced five turnovers in that game and is scheduled to face Seattle on Oct. 4 at 4:25 p.m. ET.