LANDOVER, Md. — In a disturbing turn of events during the final moments of the Washington Commanders’ match against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Austin Ekeler suffered a concussion and was subsequently transported to a hospital for further assessment.

Coach Dan Quinn mentioned that he and general manager Adam Peters were able to see Ekeler prior to his hospital visit, emphasizing that the decision to send him to the hospital was taken out of an abundance of caution, highlighting the team’s commitment to player safety.

Ekeler, who is 29 years old, experienced the injury while being tackled by Damone Clark and Nick Vigil during a kickoff return with just 9 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. He remained on the ground for an extended period as medical staff provided assistance. Players from both teams showed their respect and concern by kneeling around him, removing their helmets in solidarity.

In addition to Ekeler’s situation, lineman Andrew Wylie also suffered a concussion, while running back Brian Robinson Jr. experienced an ankle sprain, marking Washington’s third consecutive loss this season.

This season marks Ekeler’s first with the Commanders after he spent nearly a decade with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he established himself as a notable player in the league.