After a breakout showing in London, the Washington Commanders say they will “lean in” on running back Austin Ekeler.
Key points
- Ekeler posted a 7.3‑yard per carry average in his first game back, the best among Commanders’ rushers in London.
- Injuries to the backfield, notably Jacory Croskey‑Merritt’s IR placement, open the door for a larger workload for Ekeler.
- Coach Dan Quinn and QB Jayden Daniels have publicly expressed confidence in Ekeler’s quickness, decision‑making, and leadership.
- Washington’s struggling run defense could increase reliance on Ekeler in the coming weeks, especially against the Eagles.
The Commanders signed veteran running back Austin Ekeler on Tuesday before their Week 4 clash with the Indianapolis Colts, and five days later he posted the team’s best rushing average in London, gaining 7.3 yards per carry.
In that game Ekeler logged four carries, breaking off runs of three, nine and ten yards, and added an 11‑yard reception. Pro Football Focus rated him the highest‑graded offensive player on the field, and he currently ranks tenth among Washington’s offensive contributors for the season.
Ekeler’s early impact
Ekeler returns from a season‑ending Achilles injury suffered in Week 2 of 2025. In 2024 he produced 733 total yards and four touchdowns, averaging 6.5 yards per touch with an 85 % catch rate, and was a frequent target for quarterback Jayden Daniels, who posted a 101 passer rating when throwing his way.
With starting back Jacory Croskey‑Merritt on injured reserve, head coach Dan Quinn said the team will need to “lean in” on Ekeler, noting his quickness and decisiveness. Quinn added that the upcoming Sunday Night Football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles could provide more opportunities, especially as Washington’s defense has allowed 131 rushing yards per game and 155 yards to Javontae Williams in the previous contest.
Coaches weigh increased workload
Daniels echoed the sentiment, highlighting Ekeler’s leadership and his ability to understand the offense’s concepts. So far this season Ekeler has been targeted five times, catching four passes for 30 yards, and his teammates expect his snap counts to rise as the backfield adjusts to Croskey‑Merritt’s absence.
Reader questions
What has been Austin Ekeler’s performance since joining the Commanders?
Ekeler has carried the ball four times in London, averaging 7.3 yards per carry, and has added four receptions for 30 yards on five targets. He was rated the highest‑graded offensive player by Pro Football Focus in that game.
How might Ekeler’s role change with Jacory Croskey‑Merritt on injured reserve?
With Croskey‑Merritt unavailable for at least a month, head coach Dan Quinn indicated the team will “lean in” on Ekeler, suggesting a bigger share of carries and involvement in the passing game.
Source: commanders.com
