Many are surprised by the Washington Commanders’ strong performance this season, driven by the rise of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The team has a chance to further improve its roster, with an NFL analyst suggesting they trade for Austin Ekeler, who has been recovering from an injury. Recently, Ekeler expressed optimism about returning for Week 5 against the Cleveland Browns, after missing the previous game due to a concussion. He participated in a limited practice session on Wednesday and shared that he feels good and is close to completing the concussion protocol.
Ekeler expressed his excitement about rejoining the team, sharing the anxiety he felt watching from the sidelines as an active player. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming practice, which will involve pads, as a key moment in determining his readiness for Sunday’s game.
During his absence, Brian Robinson Jr. delivered an impressive performance, rushing for 101 yards and scoring a touchdown, while Jeremy McNichols added 68 yards and two touchdowns. The strong showing by the backup running backs underscores the Commanders’ roster depth, though Ekeler’s return would provide a substantial boost to the offense.
As the Washington Commanders gear up for their Week 5 game, Austin Ekeler’s potential return could be crucial in enhancing the team’s performance. Fans are excited to see how Ekeler fits back into the game plan, especially after a week where the offense excelled in his absence. With Ekeler’s determination to return and the coaching staff’s focus on his health, the Commanders are hopeful for a strong comeback.
In light of this, recent NFL analysis has suggested that the Commanders explore a trade involving Ekeler. Despite his injury, securing a player of his caliber could solidify the team’s offensive strategy moving forward.
Washington’s recent victories have come without Austin Ekeler, which has led Fansided’s Nick Villano to suggest a potential trade in his latest NFL analysis.
“The energy in Washington is high after a decisive win over the Arizona Cardinals,” Villano notes. “Jayden Daniels looks like the clear favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year, competing against an exceptional talent in Malik Nabers. Daniels has been incredible, and he’s already securing wins for the Commanders. So, who could they trade?”
Villano points out that Ekeler, who missed the Commanders’ Week 4 win due to a concussion, could be a trade candidate. In his absence, Brian Robinson Jr. shined, rushing for over 100 yards and scoring a touchdown. Robinson filled the “thunder” role perfectly, and Villano emphasized that the team didn’t seem to miss Ekeler’s “lightning.”
While Washington was initially praised for signing Ekeler to a two-year, $8.43 million deal after his rocky departure from the Chargers, Villano suggests that the Commanders could now trade the star running back for more value before the deadline. Depending on how his upcoming padded practice goes, Ekeler may either return against the Browns in Week 5 or become a trade asset in the coming weeks.
