"Jacory Croskey-Merritt was the feel-good story of the Washington Commanders' offseason, going from an unknown seventh-round pick to a key piece in the backfield in only a few short months. After impressing throughout camps and preseason, the Commanders traded away starting running back Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers. This was the biggest indicator of the confidence around Croskey-Merritt from those in the building."
"On Thursday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers, Croskey-Merritt's progress took a couple of unexpected twists. The Commanders seemed hesitant to get Croskey-Merritt involved. This can likely be explained by the fact that they were playing from behind all night, and the rookie is not known as a pass-catching back. Austin Ekeler is, and after seeing only six carries in Week 1 to Croskey-Merritt's 10, the nine-year veteran was Washington's featured back on with eight carries and a pair of receptions."
"Croskey-Merritt equaled Ekeler's total in rushing yards on only half of his carries, which makes one wonder what Washington could've done had he been featured more heavily. The Packers' defense was dominant, but perhaps the No. 245 overall selection could have provided a spark had he been able to touch the ball more than four times. Only one thing is for certain: Croskey-Merritt won't be left out of the Commanders' game plan moving forward. Unfortunately, it's for the worst possible reason."
Jacory Croskey-Merritt rose from a seventh-round pick to a key back for the Washington Commanders after strong camp and preseason play and Brian Robinson Jr. was traded. He rushed for 82 yards and a touchdown in his NFL regular-season debut and earned Pepsi Rookie of the Week. The Commanders limited his touches on Thursday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers, likely due to trailing and his limited pass-catching profile, instead featuring Austin Ekeler. Croskey-Merritt produced efficient rushing on fewer carries, raising questions about alternative playcalling. Ekeler suffered a late non-contact injury, likely increasing Croskey-Merritt's role going forward.
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