GREEN BAY, Wis. — Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler suffered a suspected torn Achilles during a 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers on September 11, 2025, leaving fans and teammates reeling as the NFL star faces a potentially career-altering setback. The injury, which occurred in the fourth quarter, has sparked an outpouring of support on X, with over 50,000 views on posts lamenting the All-Pro’s exit.
Ekeler, 30, collapsed on a non-contact play while running a route, clutching his right lower leg in pain. He was helped off the field without putting weight on the leg and later carted to the locker room. “Commanders starting RB Austin Ekeler, who was carted to the locker room with a non-contact injury, was ruled out with an Achilles injury,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport posted on X, calling it “a potentially significant injury.” An MRI on Friday will confirm the diagnosis, but ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the team fears a tear, which could sideline Ekeler for the season and impact his 2026 free agency prospects.
A Leader Lost
Ekeler, in his second year with Washington after seven seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, was a key weapon for quarterback Jayden Daniels, especially on third-down passing plays. In 2024, he racked up 367 rushing yards, 366 receiving yards, and four touchdowns, earning second-team All-Pro honors as a return specialist. “Austin’s a leader; it’s hard to see him go down,” teammate Jacory Croskey-Merritt told The Washington Post post-game. Against the Packers, Ekeler had eight carries for 17 yards and two catches for seven yards before the injury.
X Rallies Behind Ekeler
The injury sent shockwaves through X, with fans and analysts expressing heartbreak. “Austin Ekeler is an incredible friend to and advocate for the entire fantasy community,” NBC Sports’ Matthew Berry posted, adding, “Praying for the best.” Ekeler’s wife, Melanie, shared an emotional Instagram story, writing, “He’s fought through so much already. We’ll get through this too.” The post, reshared widely on X, amplified support, with @HateradeCon urging, “Keep Austin in your prayers tonight.”
What’s Next for Washington?
With Ekeler likely out, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt is expected to step up, having led the team with 82 yards and a touchdown in Week 1. Veterans Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez Jr. will also see increased roles in Washington’s backfield-by-committee. “It’s tough to lose Austin’s versatility,” head coach Dan Quinn said, withholding further updates until Monday. The Commanders, now 1-1, face the Las Vegas Raiders next, grappling with a reshaped offense.
Ekeler’s injury, one of several for Washington in Week 2, underscores the NFL’s physical toll. As fans await MRI results, the conversation on X reflects both hope for recovery and concern for a veteran whose grit defined his rise from undrafted rookie to star.