Instead of waiting to see if running back Austin Ekeler clears concussion protocol, the Washington Commanders are playing it safe with the veteran. During his Wednesday press conference, head coach Dan Quinn ruled Ekeler out for the Week 4 game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Ekeler was injured in the third quarter of Washington’s Monday night win over Cincinnati. He was checked for a concussion and ruled out. Quinn later revealed that Ekeler was also dealing with an ear laceration.
Immediately after Monday’s game, the team flew to Arizona to begin preparations for the Cardinals on a short week. Instead of flying with the team, Ekeler returned to Virginia to begin concussion protocol.
“Yeah, Austin had a concussion and also a laceration on his ear,” Quinn said Tuesday. “So, he went back to Virginia today to begin the concussion protocol. I’ll have more info as it goes toward the end of the week. Instead of coming out here to Arizona, he went back home to Virginia to begin that process.”
With Ekeler out, the Commanders will turn to veteran Jeremy McNichols behind Brian Robinson Jr. Michael Wiley or Chris Rodriguez Jr. could be elevated from the practice squad to give Washington a third running back.
Ekeler has been a significant part of Washington’s offense through three games. He’s also returned a kickoff for a touchdown, although it was called back, and returned another 62 yards.