Outside of quarterback Jayden Daniels, you could argue that running back Austin Ekeler was the Washington Commanders’ MVP through the first three weeks.
Ekeler made his presence felt as a runner, receiver, blocker and kick returner before suffering a concussion in last week’s win at Cincinnati. The Commanders immediately flew to Arizona to prepare for Week 4, while Ekeler came home to Virginia as a part of the NFL’s concussion protocol.
Washington ruled Ekeler out early last week.
In his absence, veteran Jeremy McNichols played as the Commanders’ change of pace to Brian Robinson Jr. Both played well. Robinson rushed for 101 yards and a touchdown, while McNichols had 68 yards rushing and two touchdowns.
However, Washington can’t wait to get Ekeler back. When will that be?
Ekeler joined “Grant and Danny” of 106.7 The Fan on Tuesday and said he’s on track to play Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.
“I’m continuing to complete the processes of concussion protocol and working my way through, but I’m feeling like myself, more with it today, so that’s all a good sign to hopefully getting back this week,” Ekeler said Tuesday via Lou DiPietro of Audacy.
“Tracking towards being able to play, and that’s a good sign, especially when you’re talking about your head. You want to make sure everything is how it’s supposed to be; it’s not like an ankle where you can put some tape on it, this is my brain I’m talking about, so I wanna make sure everything is feeling and reacting normal and is where it’s supposed to be, and things are definitely trending in that direction.”