Washington Commanders Prepare Jacory Croskey-Merritt for Bigger Role

ASHBURN, Va. — As the Washington Commanders adjust to a new season, all eyes are on rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt after the team traded Brian Robinson Jr. for a sixth-round pick before the season began. With Austin Ekeler suffering a potential career-ending Achilles tear in Week 2, Croskey-Merritt is stepping into the Commanders’ RB1 role.

Commanders head coach Kliff Kingsbury views Croskey-Merritt as a key player moving forward, emphasizing the importance of his pass-blocking skills. Kingsbury said he hopes to see improvements as the season progresses. “With the situation we’re in, Croskey-Merritt has a real chance to make significant contributions,” Kingsbury noted.

Croskey-Merritt, a seventh-round pick, has gained attention for outperforming expectations. NFL analyst Alex Kay believes this is a pivotal moment for him. “If he can capitalize on his expanded duties, Bill may even find himself right in the thick of the Offensive Rookie of the Year race,” Kay stated.

Though Croskey-Merritt will lead the backfield, he won’t shoulder the load alone. Veteran Jeremy McNichols joins him, bringing experience to the roster, while the team plans to involve Chris Rodriguez Jr. more actively as he acclimates to the NFL.

The Commanders are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3, where Croskey-Merritt will be crucial, particularly with starting quarterback Jayden Daniels sidelined due to a knee sprain. The team needs a strong ground game. “Croskey-Merritt is ready for this moment and will relish the opportunity to prove himself against teams that overlooked him during the draft,” Kingsbury added.

With immense responsibility falls on Croskey-Merritt, the Commanders are optimistic about his potential. Fans and analysts eager to see if he can maintain momentum and provide the offensive spark needed as Washington navigates significant injuries on its roster.