NFL Draft analyst projects bold Commanders move after Austin Ekeler concussion

Austin Ekeler's brutal concussion suffered against the Dallas Cowboys landed the running back on injured reserve. His emotional description of the events and his current condition raised significant concerns among the Washington Commanders fanbase.

Ekeler is still suffering the effects of the violent collision on a kick return late in the contest. He remembers nothing about getting off the field and there remains memory loss. This is also the second concussion he's suffered this season, which means the Commanders could shut the veteran down regardless of whether they make the postseason or not.

Much will depend on his progress in the coming weeks and whether Washington's medical staff feels comfortable enough to give him the green light. Erring on the side of caution is crucial to limit the risk of long-term implications after Ekeler walks away from the gridiron.

Ekeler has one year remaining on his deal. The same goes for Brian Robinson Jr., who's proven capable of shouldering a heavy burden with some outstanding production attached this season. Jeremy McNichols is another looking for a new deal along with Chris Rodriguez Jr., who've both displayed promise when called upon.

That shouldn't stop the Commanders from examining potential upgrades, especially with Ekeler's health in question. This was a topic discussed by Dane Brugler from The Athletic (subscription required) in his first mock draft of the cycle.

Commanders select RB Ashton Jeanty in 2025 NFL mock draft

The respected analyst projected the Commanders to make a bold move with their first-round selection. The choice? None other than Boise State phenom Ashton Jeanty.

"[Ashton] Jeanty is one of the best players in this draft class, full stop. But there aren’t many obvious landing spots for a running back in the top 20, especially if Dallas passes (and I’m not projecting any trades in a mock draft this early in the process). Washington wouldn’t be upset to see the Boise State standout fall this far. I’ll double check the NFL rule book, but a Jayden Daniels/Jeanty backfield hardly seems fair."

- Dane Brugler, The Athletic

Jeanty is a phenomenal talent. He's taken college football by storm this season and is in strong contention for the Heisman Trophy. Had it not been for two-way standout Travis Hunter's exceptional campaign at Colorado, he'd be a lock for the prestigious award.

What Jeanty's done this season is nothing short of mind-blowing. He's accumulated 2,288 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns, boasting 7.9 yards per carry. He's also added 18 receptions for 102 rushing yards.

There is nothing Jeanty cannot do with the football in his hands. His on-field vision, contact balance, and ability to turn the slightest creases into whopping gains have been evident constantly. The prospect's footwork is elite and there are notable improvements in his pass blocking to further raise intrigue.

Depending on what happens in free agency, general manager Adam Peters might be in a position to take the best player available with his first-round pick in 2025. Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones would be a brave man to pass on Jeanty, but slotting him into Washington's backfield dynamic comes with mouth-watering potential attached.

Imagine Jeanty working alongside Jayden Daniels long-term and how much confusion that would cause opposing defenses. It would be a nightmare that could help the Commanders considerably. But there is a long way to go and a lot of big decisions to make before this scenario comes to fruition.

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