In an unexpected twist, Commanders head coach Dan Quinn revealed on Tuesday that their star running back, Austin Ekeler, was still in Virginia after being slapped with a concussion diagnosis from Monday’s euphoric victory over the Bengals. Alas, the show must go on, and unfortunately, it’s one that will go on without Ekeler this week.
Ekeler Ruled Out for Cardinals Clash
With the Commanders temporarily relocating their training camp to Arizona ahead of squaring off against the Cardinals, Coach Quinn delivered the somber news mid-week.
“Yeah, Austin won’t make it for the game,” Quinn declared candidly, acknowledging that this was the wisest move given the crunch time. "We’ll have a chance to see what next week looks like then," he added, providing a glimmer of hope for fans holding their breath.
Ekeler’s absence is a significant blow, with the dynamic running back having electrified the field, racking up 83 yards on 13 carries and a touchdown. Not to be overlooked, he’s also snagged nine receptions for 121 yards and sits atop the league with an eye-popping 36.3-yard average on four kick returns. That kind of all-purpose brilliance doesn’t just grow on trees!
Stepping Up to the Plate
But fret not, Commanders faithful! Quinn expressed unshakeable confidence in the rest of his backfield brigade. The spotlight now shifts to the likes of Jeremy McNichols, who’s part of the active roster, along with Chris Rodriguez and Michael Wiley from the practice squad.
"We’re also excited for J Mac,” Quinn chimed in, his enthusiasm palpable. “He’s somebody who hasn’t gotten a lot of touches, a lot of opportunities. But I do know that he is somebody, when given those chances, he does not miss his ops.”
More Injury Woes and Bright Spots
As the old adage goes, "When it rains, it pours." Defensive end Clelin Ferrell won’t tackle any action in Week 4 due to a knee injury. The Commanders’ defensive line will sorely miss his tenacity and bulldozer-like prowess.
But not all is doom and gloom! Cornerback Emmanuel Forbes, nursing a thumb injury, is on track to make his return against Arizona. His presence is akin to a joker in the deck, bringing tenacity and lockdown coverage to the defense.
In the rollercoaster world of the NFL, where fortunes and player availability can turn on a dime, every game, every play, becomes a high-stakes drama worthy of the big screen.
Stay tuned, Commanders Nation. The journey might have hit a speed bump, but the wheels are far from coming off!
