Austin Ekeler was recently mentioned as a candidate to return to action before the end of the season. The veteran running back will indeed have the chance to suit up in Week 18. 
The Commanders announced on Wednesday that Ekeler has been designated for return from injured reserve. Head coach Dan Quinn said last week Ekeler could be back in the fold shortly, so the news comes as little surprise. Washington will now have 21 days to activate him.
Ekeler has been dealing with the effects of the concussion he suffered in Week 12, at least the fourth of his career. He has been on IR since the end of November as a result, but being back in the lineup would be a welcomed development for team and player. The Commanders clinched a playoff spot with the overtime in Week 17, but they are not guaranteed to finish in the No. 6 slot in the NFC’s standing they currently occupy.
As a result, Ekeler could be available as soon as this Sunday. The 29-year-old would likely return to splitting backfield duties with Brian Robinson Jr. upon return. Ekeler has recorded 107 touches this season, his first in the nation’s capital. As expected, he departed the Chargers in free agency and joined several veteran backs in finding a new team during the spring. Ekeler inked a two-year, $8.43MM pact to join the Commanders and has played in role in the league’s No. 3 rushing offense.
Robinson leads the team in production on the ground with 789 yards, though, and he will be expected to remain a key member of Washington’s offense heading into the playoffs. Ekeler could provide a notable change of pace along with production in the passing game provided he is activated no later than Washington’s wild-card game. Managing to remain healthy through the remainder of the campaign will also be key for team and player given his injury history.
Ekeler is a turnover machine. If the Commanders are smart they won’t let him get anywhere near a football.
He fumbled 3 times in 75 attempts… 24 times in 1000 attempts in his career… hardly a turn over machine. Like 2% of his carries have resulted in a TO.
Confusing Ekeler for Melvin Gordon?
He can be a major weapon in postseason.