Despite a less than stellar defense, the Washington Commanders are firmly on their way to the playoffs. While rookie Jayden Daniels rightfully received much of the credit for their electric offense, their running game was equally impressive. With the combination of Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler, the team was able to put in the work with dedication.

But Ekeler has been out for the last four weeks due to injury. With a crucial matchup against the Atlanta Falcons coming up in Week 17 with big playoff implications, is Ekeler ready to play?

What is Austin Ekeler’s injury?

It was a tough season for Ekeler, who took a beating when rushing the ball. He suffered a concussion in Week 3 earlier this year. Against the Cincinnati Bengals, he was only able to play 13 snaps before being taken off the field. Luckily, the situation didn’t last long and Ekeler returned in Week 5.

Unfortunately, he was struck down by another concussion in Week 12. Against a physical Dallas Cowboys defense in an always difficult divisional game, Ekeler suffered another concussion, this time on a kick return. He has yet to return to the field immediately after leaving the game.

The Commanders, also fearful of the playoffs, were cautious with Ekeler. His placement on injured reserve ensured that he would be out for a long period of time (at least four games). But it could also ensure that Washington can get its one-two punch in time for the postseason.

When will Austin Ekeler return from injury?

After suffering a concussion in Week 12 against the Cowboys, Ekeler has yet to see any minutes on the field. Since he is on the IR list, he is guaranteed to miss four games starting in Week 13.

That schedule would have allowed him a likely Week 17 return. However, a bye in Week 14 also extended his return schedule by a week. Therefore, it could be a fait accompli that he returns in a Week 18 clash against the same Cowboys.

Depending on how Week 17 unfolds for Washington, the game could swing between extremely critical or hilariously unimportant.

Even head coach Dan Quinn is optimistic he will return from the IR list before the end of the season. When he returns, Ekeler should give the commander another look at an already serious offense.

How did Ekeler’s absence affect the commanders?

At full strength, the Commanders had the fantastic combination of Robinson and Ekeler, not to mention the running ability of Daniels himself. But in Ekeler’s absence, they had to rely on Jeremy McNichols to provide alternate snaps.

Despite having a relatively quiet season, Ekeler still managed more than 350 yards in just 11 games played. For a three-headed running monster like the Commanders, this dynamic was part of the offensive balance.

Robinson was largely responsible for Ekeler not being in the lineup. Although he has far more yards (729) than Ekeler, as would be expected from the team’s RB1, his role continues to increase with Ekeler no longer in the rotation.