Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler (concussion) once again suffered an injury that knocked him out of the game (and knocked him out in general) in Week 12. It's possible this one could see him have an extended absence.
It's unfortunate to see players suffer multiple of the same type of injuries in the NFL, but that's the reality of the game. It's a brutal sport. You just have to hope they heal up quickly and are able to return without further issues.
So when will Ekeler return to the field for his team?
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Austin Ekeler Injury Update for Fantasy Football
He suffered a huge concussion, his second of the season, on a big collision during a kickoff return. He leaned his head into the opposing player and had his lights shut out by a massive hit. He fell to the ground and didn't get up for some time. Eventually, he was pulled from the game.
And #Commanders Austin Ekeler was just knocked out cold. 😬 Hope he’s ok! #DALvsWAS #Commanders #AustinEkeler
Loud Helmet to helmet hit.? pic.twitter.com/umFOkQtKAi
— AC (@ACinPhilly) November 24, 2024
His fellow players instantly recognized the seriousness of the injury, as did anyone watching the television. He was KO'd stiff and didn't move for some time. This is his second concussion of the season. It wouldn't be surprising if he was placed on injured reserve, though we haven't seen that happen yet.
He'll most likely miss more games than he did the first time around -- he suited up again after being out for just one contest after his first traumatic brain injury. But it doesn't seem like he'll miss the rest of the season.
Austin Ekeler Fantasy Football Outlook
When he does return, he'll likely still be in a committee with lead back Brian Robinson Jr. (ankle). The Commanders clearly prefer to use two running backs heavily, and if Robinson can't go for some reason, expect more work for Jeremy McNichols. Ekeler is a decent RB3/FLEX option in deeper PPR leagues.
AUSTIN EKELER 24-YARD TOUCHDOWN 🔥 pic.twitter.com/iCP2H2UnT8
— NFL Retweet (@NFLRT) September 24, 2024
He had three straight games of 17 or more PPR fantasy points in Weeks 9-11, so he may have been hitting his stride well for that stretch. So it's sad to see him get hurt yet again.
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