Last season, Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler tore his Achilles tendon during the team's Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers. He would miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery, and he became a free agent in March when the Commanders did not offer him an extension.
As of this writing, Ekeler remains a free agent, but that doesn't mean he is done with football. Ekeler spoke with Matthew Berry on his Fantasy Football Happy Hour podcast about whether he will return in 2026.
On today's #FFHappyhour I asked @AustinEkeler if he's playing this year and if so, for who? @MBFantasyLife pic.twitter.com/xwV3mvh2Un
— Matthew Berry (@MatthewBerryTMR) August 5, 2026
"It's the mystery that's hovering over my head that everyone is wondering about. For me, I gotta look for the right
situation. I'm coming off an Achilles tear; I'm fully healthy and back in the weight room pushing a ton of weight like usual, so that's my safe place. I knew that wasn't going to be a problem; it was just a matter of time for me to get back on my feet.
"I'm at that time of my career where I'm more of a support role guy; that's where I see myself. So, what's the situation with the coaching, what's the timing of the team, and is it a right fit for Austin? I'm playing it slow right now; I have no reason to rush into anything, and looking for the best opportunity for me. Is that going to be Week 1? Is it going to be later on? Maybe there's an injury that pops up and presents an opportunity for me. So, that's where I'm at right now, looking for the right situation, and if that doesn't present itself, we'll see if I jump into the next life and just looking for the best fantasy players out there."
In his two seasons with the Commanders, Ekeler appeared in 14 games and recorded 410 rushing yards and four touchdowns, as well as 37 receptions for 404 yards. He also returned 19 kickoffs in 2024 with the Commanders for 594 yards. That gives him 1,408 all-purpose yards over 14 games in two seasons.
Now over the age of 30, Ekeler's options are likely limited for returning to the NFL. However, he is a dynamic utility player, and it won't be surprising to see him back on an NFL field this fall.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Will former Commanders RB Austin Ekeler play in 2026?
