Commanders deploy Athan Kaliakmanis and Austin Ekeler in depleted backfield

Tight end Colson Yankoff is one snap away from QB duties.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 43m1 min read

Things that could've been tough to forecast for the Commanders a couple of weeks ago - Athan Kaliakmanis will be handin Via @PFF on X

What happened: Rookie Athan Kaliakmanis is operating as the Washington Commanders' quarterback, handing the ball off to running back Austin Ekeler. The unexpected backfield pairing leaves tight end Colson Yankoff positioned as the emergency quarterback.

Why it matters: The unusual alignment underscores the severe personnel challenges facing Washington. The Commanders have been forced to rely on a rookie drafted in the seventh round alongside Ekeler, who joined the active roster in late September.

By the numbers: Washington entered the contest at 2-4 on the season, averaging 18.5 points per game. The Commanders currently trail the Indianapolis Colts 10-6 while the game is in progress.

What to watch: Washington must navigate the remainder of the contest while protecting Kaliakmanis from further roster attrition.

Sources

@PFF 2026-10-04T14:49:21.209549+00:00

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