Austin Ekeler is set to return to Washington, as the Commanders are expected to sign the veteran running back, pending a physical, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo.
Ekeler played the past two seasons for Washington, but he ruptured his Achilles in Week 2 in 2025.
He was a key offensive player for the Commanders in 2024 on their run to the NFC Championship Game but missed five games due to two concussions.
Ekeler worked out for the Carolina Panthers last week before the expected return to Washington.
Ekeler was signed mostly for depth, and his role, as of now, remains uncertain.
The Commanders have used Rachaad White as a third-down back. He injured his shoulder Sunday but did return and Ekeler's signing isn't related to that injury, according to a team source.
White leads Washington with 151 yards from scrimmage, including 51 receiving.
Washington also has Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who has rushed for a team-high 142 yards this season, and rookie Kaytron Allen.
Injuries have impacted the past three seasons for Ekeler. He also missed three games in 2023 with the Los Angeles Chargers because of an ankle injury that affected him beyond the games he sat out.
This article synthesizes reporting from ESPN. Top story: "Commanders set to re-add Austin Ekeler to RB room, sources say" (ESPN).