Onto year nine.
“It’s a blessing to be able to make a full recovery,” began Commanders running back Austin Ekeler, responding to Scott Abraham of ABC 7 Washington on Wednesday.
Having just turned 30 (May 17), Ekeler is very encouraged despite suffering two head injuries during the Washington 2024 season. “I went and saw professionals to learn what are some potential long-term things,” continued Ekeler.
Returning kickoffs last season, Ekeler was very effective. However, the downside is that Ekeler was injured badly during a kickoff return in a home loss to the Cowboys. The Commanders then placed Ekeler on injured reserve, meaning Ekeler would then automatically miss the next four weeks.
Ekeler assured Abraham that he had indeed made a full recovery and that he was confident and feeling good when it was time for the playoffs last season. When he mentioned that he would be entering his ninth NFL season, one could visibly observe that Ekeler was surprised to think he had already been in the NFL for eight seasons (seven with the Chargers before joining the Commanders last season).
In the open field, Ekeler proved himself to be a valuable asset for the Commanders in 2024, scoring four rushing touchdowns and having 35 receptions, 14 of which converted first downs on Commanders possessions.
Ekeler really likes being in Ashburn, playing for the Commanders, expressing, “the culture around football here is truly incredible…that’s so special to have the community involved because we feel like we are together out here.”