Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler suffered a scary injury on a kick return in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.
A team spokesperson confirmed that Ekeler was evaluated for a concussion and was taken to an area hospital after the game “out of an abundance of caution.” Commanders coach Dan Quinn said the running back would undergo additional testing on Sunday night.
Ekeler, 29, took a hard hit on a kick return with nine seconds remaining in the game and appeared motionless on the field. His teammates immediately motioned for medical staff.
Ekeler eventually walked off the field on his own, flanked by trainers.
Players from both teams took a knee on the field as medical personnel tended to Ekeler. He was taken to the locker room immediately and appeared dazed after the hit.
The Commanders lost the game, 34-26.
PHOTOS: Commanders lose 3rd in a row, 34-26 to the Cowboys
Sunday’s concussion was the second of the season for Ekeler, who missed one game after suffering a head injury against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sept. 23.
Washington’s running back room is being thinned out by injuries. Starter Brian Robinson Jr. missed most of Sunday’s game after suffering an ankle injury on the first play from scrimmage.
If Robinson and Ekeler miss time, third-stringer Jeremy McNichols will likely take on more responsibility. The team waived fellow running back Chris Rodriguez on Saturday, though he’s a likely candidate to return on the practice squad.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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