Austin Ekeler Reportedly to Sign Commanders Contract, Latest Fantasy Advice for Waiver-Wire Decision

The Washington Commanders are planning to sign veteran running back Austin Ekeler, according to Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.

Ekeler spent the previous two seasons in Washington. He logged just two appearances in 2025 after suffering a torn Achilles.

The 31-year-old joins a backfield that includes Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Rachaad White, so he's likely to provide depth more than anything else. From a fantasy football perspective, his return to the nation's capital shouldn't have fantasy managers rushing to the waiver wire.

Ekeler had a stretch where he was one of the more dynamic running backs in the league. He led the NFL in touchdowns scored in 2021 and 2022 and finished with at least 1,500 yards from scrimmage three times between 2019-22.

The injuries have added up, though.

A high-ankle sprain caused Ekeler to miss three games in 2023. He was diagnosed with two concussions in 2024, costing him a total of five games. Then came the Achilles tear, which could have big implications on his performance moving forward.

The Commanders are looking for something to spark their running game. Croskey-Merritt went for just 36 yards on 19 carries in Sunday's 33-31 win over the Seattle Seahawks.

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White has been more effective as the backup but picked up a shoulder injury Sunday. Prior to signing with the Commanders, his four-year spell with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers wasn't all that impressive.

And quarterback Jayden Daniels is recovering from a dislocated elbow. Whenever he does return, the team won't want him scrambling out of the pocket much, thus taking another dimension away from the ground game.

Maybe Ekeler makes an impact as a situational ball-carrier and pass-catcher out of the backfield. It's tough to envision him getting enough touches to merit any serious fantasy consideration.