Austin Ekeler was just lately talked about as a candidate to return to motion earlier than the tip of the season. The veteran operating again will certainly have the possibility to swimsuit up in Week 18.
The Commanders introduced on Wednesday that Ekeler has been designated for return from injured reserve. Head coach Dan Quinn stated final week Ekeler might be again within the fold shortly, so the information comes as little shock. Washington will now have 21 days to activate him.
Ekeler has been coping with the results of the concussion he suffered in Week 12, not less than the fourth of his profession. He has been on IR because the finish of November in consequence, however being again within the lineup can be a welcomed improvement for crew and participant. The Commanders clinched a playoff spot with an extra time win in Week 17, however they aren’t assured to complete within the No. 6 slot within the NFC’s standings they at the moment occupy.
Ekeler might be accessible as quickly as this Sunday. The 29-year-old would seemingly return to splitting backfield duties with Brian Robinson Jr. upon return. Ekeler has recorded 107 touches this season, his first within the nation’s capital. As anticipated, he departed the Chargers in free company and joined a number of veteran backs to find a brand new crew in the course of the spring. Ekeler inked a two-year, $8.43M pact and has performed in position within the league’s No. 3 dashing offense.
Robinson leads the crew in manufacturing on the bottom with 789 yards, although, and he will probably be anticipated to stay a key member of Washington’s offense heading into the playoffs. Ekeler might present a notable change of tempo together with manufacturing within the passing sport supplied he’s activated no later than Washington’s wild-card sport. Managing to stay wholesome by means of the rest of the marketing campaign can even be key for crew and participant given his damage historical past.
