Austin Ekeler’s Torn Achilles Devastates Washington Commanders, Likely Ending His 2026 Season Before It Even Began

September 12, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 12, 2026

Austin Ekeler, the veteran running back for the Washington Commanders, suffered a significant Achilles injury during the team’s Week 2 matchup against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night, September 11, 2026.

The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter, with the Commanders trailing 27-10.

austin ekeler injury

— ◇ (@F0RGIAT0)

Ekeler was lined up in the slot, delivered a chip block, and attempted to cut upfield when he suddenly collapsed without any contact.

He immediately grabbed the back of his right lower leg and was unable to put weight on it.

Assisted off the field, Ekeler was carted to the locker room and ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Prayers for Austin Ekeler, you hate to see it.

— MVP10VE (@MVP10VE)

The Commanders believe he sustained a torn Achilles tendon, an injury that would effectively end his 2026 season.

An MRI for Friday, September 12, will confirm the extent of the damage, though early reports are pessimistic.

Before the injury, Ekeler had recorded eight carries for 17 yards and two receptions for 7 yards.

His absence leaves a significant void in Washington’s backfield.

Currently in the final year of the two-year deal he signed in March 2026, Ekeler entered this season following a productive career with the Los Angeles Chargers and is now in his ninth NFL season.

Ekeler, a former Second-Team All-Pro kickoff returner, amassed 733 all-purpose yards last season and played a crucial role in the Commanders reach their first NFC Championship Game since 1991.

With Ekeler sidelined, the Commanders now face the challenge of restructuring their offensive game plan without their star running back.

Head coach Dan Quinn and the coaching staff will need to find ways to leverage RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Jeremy McNichols effectively while maintaining offensive balance.

The team’s success will largely depend on how effectively these players can step up and contribute in both running and passing situations.

Ekeler’s injury also has immediate implications for fantasy football managers. Fantasy owners should consider adding Croskey-Merritt to their rosters, as he may see increased opportunities in the coming weeks.

Throughout his career, Ekeler has proven to be a dynamic and versatile player.

In nine seasons with the Chargers (2017 – 2026) and the Commanders (2026 – present), he has accumulated 4,765 rushing yards with 43 touchdowns on 1,081 carries, along with 480 receptions for 4,288 yards and 30 receiving touchdowns.

Known for his ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver, Ekeler’s skill set makes him a critical asset for any team he plays on.

Austin Ekeler’s Injury History: A Look at His Career Setbacks and Resilience

Austin Ekeler has faced numerous injuries throughout his career, but he has consistently demonstrated toughness and resilience on the field.

His injury history goes back to his rookie season in 2017 with the Los Angeles Chargers, when he his hand.

The following year, he had a neck stinger and a concussion, early signs of the challenges he would face in the NFL.

In 2026, Ekeler had a hamstring strain that put him on injured reserve, and later that season, he suffered another concussion in the final game.

In 2026, he missed three games due to a grade 3 high , and in November 2026, during his first season with the Washington Commanders, he had a grade 1 concussion, missing four more games.

Even with these injuries, Ekeler has proven to be a consistent and versatile player. He contributes both as a runner and a receiver, making him a valuable part of any team.

Every time he comes back from injury, he shows determination and strength, proving why he is one of the NFL’s most reliable and dynamic running backs.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Austin Ekeler was born on May 17, 1995, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and grew up with his younger brother, Wyett Ekeler, who played football at the University of Wyoming.

• In 2026, he founded the Austin Ekeler Foundation, a nonprofit organization with the mission “to help create opportunities for people to fulfill their passions and ultimately their lives.”

• He married his wife, Melanie Ekeler (née Wilking), a digital creator, on May 25, 2026.

• Check other Articles on

Sabin Manandhar is a skilled content writer specializing in clear, engaging digital content. He focuses on quality and alignment, creating captivating narratives that resonate with audiences.

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