Video of Commanders RB Austin Ekeler’s non-contact injury is tough to watch

The Washington Commanders running back, Austin Ekeler, suffered a devastating non-contact injury during Thursday Night Football's 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

The 30-year-old veteran went down in the fourth quarter, clutching his right calf after attempting to cut upfield on a pass route. He was immediately helped to the sideline by athletic trainers, carted off, and ruled out for the remainder of the game.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter shared a slow-motion video of the play, showing Ekeler falling to the ground and clutching his right calf in real time. The Commanders later announced he had suffered an Achilles injury, with further imaging scheduled for Friday to confirm whether the tendon is fully torn.

Ekeler was Washington’s primary running back and third-down back. He logged eight carries for 17 yards and added two receptions for seven yards before leaving the game. In Week 1, he led the team’s backfield with 33 offensive snaps, ahead of rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who rushed for 82 yards and a touchdown, and journeyman Jeremy McNichols. With Ekeler sidelined, Croskey-Merritt will likely take on the lead role, though McNichols handled the final drive against the Packers.

This injury comes at a particularly bad time for Ekeler, who is coming off a 2024 season in which he battled with multiple concussions and finished with 733 yards from scrimmage, his lowest output since his rookie year. In his career, Ekeler has been highly productive, posting over 1,000 yards from scrimmage in four separate seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers before signing with Washington in March 2024 on an $11 million deal. He earned a second-team All-Pro nod last season, largely for his kick-return work.

The Commanders' offense couldn't do much throughout the game against the Packers. Quarterback Jayden Daniels completed 24 of 42 passes for 200 yards, two touchdowns, and an 85.4 passer rating while being sacked four times. The team totaled just 51 rushing yards, with Daniels himself accounting for 17. Tight end Zach Ertz had six catches for 64 yards and a touchdown, while Deebo Samuel caught seven passes for 44 yards and a score, and Terry McLaurin had five receptions for 48 yards.

The Packers dominated most of the contest, moving the ball efficiently on two drives over 90 yards in the first half to take a 14-3 halftime lead. Quarterback Jordan Love finished 19-of-31 for 292 yards with two touchdowns and a 113.9 passer rating. RB Josh Jacobs ran 23 times for 84 yards and a touchdown, continuing his streak of consecutive games with a rushing TD to 10, a new franchise record.

BREAKING NEWS: Will Campbell Pledges $5 Million to Fight Homelessness in New England — ‘I Can’t Stand By Knowing Families Are Sleeping Outside’

New England Patriots offensive lineman Will Campbell

is redefining what it means to be a leader both on and off the field. In a powerful and groundbreaking announcement, Campbell revealed that he is committing $5 million from his latest sponsorship deals to fund a major initiative aimed at tackling homelessness in New England. This initiative will open 100 permanent housing units and provide 200 shelter beds to those in desperate need in a region where harsh winters and economic challenges have left thousands without homes.

Campbell's Powerful Words
At a press conference held at Gillette Stadium, Campbell, known for his resilience and humble demeanor, spoke candidly about why this cause is so personal to him. “New England gave me everything — love, energy, belief. Now it’s my turn to give back. I can’t stand by knowing families are sleeping outside in this region,” Campbell said. His words resonated deeply, not just with Patriots fans, but with an entire community.

A Leader Beyond Football
Campbell has always been celebrated for his discipline, work ethic, and leadership on the field. But with this generous pledge, he’s showing that his leadership extends far beyond the game. As one of the NFL's most respected stars, Campbell is part of a growing movement of athletes who use their platform to drive social change. In a league dominated by multi-million-dollar contracts and constant headlines, Campbell's selflessness is a refreshing reminder that athletes can make a real difference.

The New England Homelessness Crisis
New England has long faced a dire homelessness crisis, with thousands of families and individuals living on the streets. Rising housing costs and the ongoing economic fallout from the pandemic have only worsened the situation. Campbell’s $5 million pledge will be used to build 100 permanent housing units, provide emergency shelter beds during the cold winter months, and fund critical job training and family support programs aimed at breaking the cycle of homelessness.

Teammates and Coaches React
Inside the Patriots' locker room, Campbell’s announcement was met with pride and admiration. Head Coach Mike Vrabel praised his offensive lineman for not only leading on the field but also showing what true leadership looks like. “Will is the ultimate competitor, but also the ultimate leader. This region means so much to him, and today he showed just how much he means to this region,” Vrabel said. Teammates, including quarterback

Mac Jones, were equally moved. “That’s my guy. We fight together on the field, but this right here — this is life-changing,” Jones shared.

A City and Fanbase Unite

New England fans, known for their passionate support, rallied behind Campbell’s announcement with fervor. Social media erupted with hashtags like #CampbellHelpsNewEngland and #OLWithAHeart, as fans expressed their admiration for their lineman’s commitment to his community. “This man isn’t just our lineman, he’s our HERO,” one fan tweeted. “Super Bowl or not, Will has already won where it matters most.”

Building a Legacy Beyond the Game
While Campbell is still in the prime of his career, his commitment to tackling homelessness in New England ensures that his legacy will be defined by more than just football accomplishments. The

Campbell Housing Initiative is set to break ground in early 2026, with the goal of providing long-term stability and hope for families who need it most.

Conclusion
Will Campbell has always been known for his quiet strength and determination, but today he proved that his greatest victory may not come on the football field. His selflessness and heart will leave a lasting impact on those who will soon have a roof over their heads, all thanks to his generosity. As Campbell himself said: “I can’t stand by knowing families are sleeping outside in this region.” For New England, this is more than just a lineman — this is a true leader, role model, and man of the people.