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 prospect to go well with up in Week 18.
The Commanders announced on Wednesday that Ekeler has been designated for return from injured reserve. Head coach Dan Quinn stated final week Ekeler could be back in 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 consequences of the concussion he suffered in Week 12, no less than the fourth of his profession. He has been on IR since the end of November because of this, however being again within the lineup could be a welcomed growth for staff and participant. The Commanders clinched a playoff spot with an time beyond regulation 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 may very well be out there as quickly as this Sunday. The 29-year-old would doubtless 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 staff 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 speeding offense.
Robinson leads the staff in manufacturing on the bottom with 789 yards, although, and he might be anticipated to stay a key member of Washington’s offense heading into the playoffs. Ekeler may present a notable change of tempo together with manufacturing within the passing recreation offered he’s activated no later than Washington’s wild-card recreation. Managing to stay wholesome by the rest of the marketing campaign may also be key for staff and participant given his damage historical past.
