Former Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler has been working exceptionally hard to get back from a torn Achilles tendon in recent months. He's now been medically cleared to resume football activities, leading some fans to wonder if general manager Adam Peters would reunite with the dual-threat weapon.
Looking at how crowded Washington's backfield already is, that seems highly unlikely. But one NFL analyst urged a bitter division rival to take the plunge instead.
Ekeler won't be turning down anything. He wants a chance to prove he can still go, and according to reports, there is interest. Whether that includes the Commanders is highly debatable, but the former Western Colorado standout should be fresh and ready to make a statement.
NFL analyst urges Cowboys to sign former Commanders RB Austin Ekeler
Anthony Palacios of Last Word on Sports implored the Dallas Cowboys to take a swing at Ekeler as the backup to Javonte Williams. The analyst believes their faith in some younger running backs is all well and good, but they are no sure things, making this a possible option if the money works for all parties.
"While they’re betting on Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis to step up for Javonte Williams, it might be a safe decision for the team to take a look at [Austin] Ekeler. He might not start over Blue, but it gives Dak Prescott another versatile offensive weapon to depend on in screen play situations. Ekeler doesn’t just run the ball, but he can catch and make some moves the Cowboys haven’t seen before.
"On tape, it might not be the same anymore, but he still has some type of durability to shine on a solid one-year contract."
Ekeler joining the Cowboys wouldn't be ideal for Washington, but it does make sense.
Williams is the lead option, which would return Ekeler to the complementary role he occupied alongside Brian Robinson Jr. during the 2024 campaign in this scenario. This was a recipe for success as the Commanders took everyone by surprise en route to the NFC Championship game. And at a relatively late stage in his career, it's the best way to enhance longevity.
It was a massive setback for Ekeler in Week 2 against the Green Bay Packers. The Commanders were counting on him heavily as the No. 1 option, though his injury enabled Jacory Croskey-Merritt to break out much sooner than anyone predicted. After a grueling few months, he's back and probably looking to make up for some lost time.
Commanders fans have been extremely supportive of Ekeler throughout his rehabilitation, offering encouraging words on social media that no doubt meant a lot to him. But if he does end up signing for the Cowboys, that mood would instantly change.
Time will tell...
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