Jeremy McNichols joined the Commanders as a seemingly long-shot 29-yr-old free agent running back a year ago. He ended up being active for 17 games and making significant contributions as both a running back and special teams player. This week, he re-signed on another 1-year contract in an attempt to continue the dream in DC.
He spoke to the media on Friday morning.
Asked why he wanted to return to Washington this season, McNichols talked about winning, competition and common goals. He said he thinks he fits the Commanders culture, that he loves to play football, loves the DMV, his teammates and his coaches.
He said that he didn’t explore other options: “It was here — it was here the whole time. I had a bad taste in my mouth after the NFC Championship game, and there were a few teams interested, but the Commanders were in my heart. This is where I wanted to be...I couldn’t see myself wearing another jersey.”
He talked about 2025 as ‘starting all over again’, talked about ‘laying bricks’, and concluded by saying that, at the end of the day, he thinks the players will get what they want.
With respect to the running back group, he talked about correcting mistake and focusing on the season.
He talked about the veterans who joined the team via trade saying that anyone who wanted to work hard would fit in, and mentioned that the Tunsil acquisition would ‘shore up the left side of the line’.
McNichols addressed the expectations saying that every season of his career started like this one: “0-0 and chasing a Lombardi.”
He recalled that he’d been in SF with Deebo and talked glowingly about Samuel as a player with great habits, knowledge and the ability to help others in addition to the fire and attitude he brings to his on-field play. He said that Deebo would fit in perfectly in the Commanders locker room.
The running back also discussed the confidence that comes from having built a solid foundation last year and having familiarity with the coaching staff. He added that nobody has higher expectations for the team than those who are inside the building.
McNichols closed by saying, “Whatever you put on tape is your resume. I love going out there every single day to practice, the weight room, the process.”