The Washington Commanders received bad news on Saturday about Austin Ekeler. The running back will miss the remainder of the 2025 season after tearing his Achilles tendon, confirmed by an MRI, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport.
The veteran shared a brief message of gratitude to fans on Instagram on Saturday, writing,
"Thank you all for the love and well wishes. I appreciate you all."
Here is Austin Ekeler’s message to fans on IG https://t.co/crQFY3jcoA pic.twitter.com/aiKAjy7grK
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 13, 2025
During the Thursday night game against the Green Bay Packers, he suffered a non-contact injury while attempting a cut. He was carted off the field and later ruled out by the team.
Ekeler, in his ninth NFL season and second with Washington, had started both games this year, totaling 43 rushing yards and 38 receiving yards. Last season, he recorded 367 rushing yards and 366 receiving yards.
With Ekeler sidelined, Washington is expected to name rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt as the team's lead running back, according to Ian Rapoport.