Commanders RB Austin Ekeler clears concussion protocol, to play vs. Browns
Washington running back Austin Ekeler has cleared concussion protocol and will play in Sunday’s home game against the Cleveland Browns, Commanders coach Dan Quinn said Friday.
Quinn also said starting running back Brian Robinson (knee) is trending in the right direction but will be a game-time decision. Wide receiver Noah Brown (groin) and defensive end Clelin Ferrell (knee) have been ruled out against the Browns (1-3).
Ekeler missed last Sunday’s road victory over the Arizona Cardinals as the Commanders improved to 3-1. He exited the Sept. 23 win at Cincinnati in the second half with the injury and also a lacerated ear. It was his third documented concussion in his seven-plus years in the NFL.
The 29-year-old has 13 rushes for 83 yards and a touchdown in three games (one start) this season, his first with the Commanders. He also has nine catches for 121 yards out of the backfield while splitting time with Robinson.
Ekeler signed a two-year contract worth $11.43 million with Washington in March after seven seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers.
In 106 career games (69 starts), Ekeler has amassed 8,443 yards from scrimmage (4,438 rushing, 4,005 receiving) with 40 rushing touchdowns and 30 receiving TDs.
Robinson, 25, has started all four games and has 66 carries for 307 yards and three touchdowns. He also has eight cathes for 68 yards.
Brown, 28, has played in three games (two starts) for the Commanders since they signed him as a free agent on Aug. 29. He has nine receptions on 10 targets for 111 yards.
Ferrell, 27, started the first two games of the season and had four tackles, including two sacks, but has not played since then.
–Field Level Media