Could running back Austin Ekeler return to the Washington Commanders in 2026? Don't bet on it, but Ekeler is healthy and plays to play for someone next season.

The soon-to-be-31-year-old Ekeler played two seasons for Washington after spending seven seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers. A former undrafted free agent, Ekeler turned himself into arguably the NFL's best pass-catching back. After signing with the Commanders in 2024, Ekeler became one of the team's top offensive weapons, rushing for 367 yards and four touchdowns, while also catching 35 passes. He was also outstanding on kickoff returns.

Ekeler was expected to be an integral part of Washington's offense again in 2025, but suffered an Achilles injury in a Week 2 loss to Green Bay and was lost for the season. It was one of the first of many significant injuries for the Commanders last season. Washington's offense missed Ekeler. Some even wondered if the injury could end his career.

Longtime NFL reporter Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 in Houston said Ekeler is "fully 100% medically cleared for all football activities." Wilson said Ekeler is expected to receive interest from across the NFL.

Washington was often mentioned as a potential destination for Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love in the 2026 NFL Draft. On paper, it would've been a perfect fit, but Love was long gone before the Commanders went on the clock at No. 7 overall.

This offseason, the Commanders have signed two free-agent running backs, Rachaad White and Jerome Ford, while re-signing Jeremy McNichols. All three are on one-year deals. Washington's backfield will be led by second-year back Jacory "Bill" Croskey-Merritt, with rookie sixth-round pick Kaytron Allen also in the mix. White is expected to handle pass-catching duties in new offensive coordinator David Blough's offense.

The Commanders loved Ekeler. However, with a new offense, especially one trending younger, he's simply not a fit in 2026. He likely knew this, too, saying goodbye to Washington fans in January just after the season ended.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Austin Ekeler with positive update on future