Source: Commanders RB Ekeler has torn Achilles

"Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler suffered a torn right Achilles and will miss the remainder of the season, a source told ESPN on Saturday. The news was anticipated after Ekeler exited Washington's 27-18 loss to Green Bay in the fourth quarter Thursday night. "Thank you all for the love and well wishes. I appreciate you all," Ekeler wrote in an Instagram story Saturday."

""That will be significant," Washington coach Dan Quinn said after the game. "He provides a lot of unique things for us." It's a crucial blow to Washington's offense as Ekeler served as the primary back -- though the Commanders don't have one dominant rusher -- and excelled on third downs and in the spread packages. Last season, Ekeler rushed for 367 yards and gained another 366 receiving. Quinn also constantly pointed out his leadership in the running backs room as well as with the offense in general."

"Ekeler ran a route with 5:50 remaining in the game and fell to the ground without any contact. He needed to be helped off the field before being carted to the locker room. Ekeler exited the locker room with a walking boot and on crutches and was clearly dejected. The Commanders have three other running backs on their roster in rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, veteran Jeremy McNichols and third-year Chris Rodriguez, who was inactive the first two games but had a strong training camp and preseason."

Austin Ekeler suffered a torn right Achilles and will miss the remainder of the season. The injury occurred late in Washington's 27-18 loss to Green Bay when Ekeler ran a route, fell without contact and was helped off the field. Ekeler posted a brief Instagram message thanking fans. He left the locker room in a walking boot and on crutches. Coach Dan Quinn called the loss significant and noted Ekeler's unique contributions and leadership. Last season Ekeler rushed for 367 yards and added 366 receiving. The Commanders roster includes Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez; Brian Robinson Jr. was traded to San Francisco.

Read at ESPN.com