Commanders sign RB Austin Ekeler to 53-man roster

The Washington Commanders are bringing Austin Ekeler back. The veteran running back is expected to sign to the 53-man roster pending a physical, a reunion that lands him in a familiar place.

Ekeler is healed from an Achilles tear that cut his 2025 season short, and he worked out for the Panthers last week before Washington moved to bring him back. He averaged nearly five yards per rush in 2024 with the Commanders, and the team is betting the veteran can recapture that form now that he is back to full health.

The signing gives Washington a proven, versatile option in the backfield. Ekeler's ability to contribute both as a runner and as a receiver out of the backfield adds depth and experience to a Commanders offense looking to keep its ground game steady.

Ekeler returns to a team and system he knows well, which should ease the transition as he works his way back from the injury. For Washington, it is a low-risk add with the upside of a familiar, productive veteran.