Although the preseason becomes tiresome for established professionals eager for the new campaign to arrive, it represents something entirely different for those fighting for relevancy. And one NFL analyst believes there is a surging Washington Commanders rookie ready to make himself a household name.
It's getting harder to ignore the momentum building around Jacory Croskey-Merritt. The Commanders ended his dramatic slide at No. 245 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, which came thanks in no small part to having his eligibility revoked by the NCAA one game into his transfer to Arizona.
The running back is highly motivated to make up for some lost time. Croskey-Merritt caught the eye considerably over the summer. And the fact that he was used sparingly during joint practice against the New England Patriots suggests a heavy workload could arrive in Washington's preseason opener.
NFL analyst tips Jacory Croskey-Merritt to star over Commanders' preseason slate
How Croskey-Merritt performs in a more pressurized setting will tell the coaching staff more about what he could potentially bring when competitive games commence. Until then, Cameron Sheath from Pro Football and Sports Network joined the growing list of fans and analysts who believe the first-year pro could come to the fore much quicker than anticipated.
"Much of the Washington Commanders camp buzz centers around rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt. The seventh-round pick has been lighting it up in Commanders camp, leaving many wondering if he will usurp Brian Robinson Jr. as the lead back. Croskey-Merritt’s seventh-round draft capital can be attributed to eligibility issues that saw him play just one game in 2024. In that game, though, he turned 13 carries into 106 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his evident ability. The running back is currently a relative unknown, but could blow up over the preseason schedule."
Cameron Sheath
If Croskey-Merritt does blow up over Washington's preseason slate, that'll shake things up considerably. Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler are the experienced running back tandem who will lead the charge initially. But offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury might have no choice other than to find specific packages that maximize the rookie's skill set right out of the gate.
The foundations have been laid for this eventuality. Kingsbury worked Croskey-Merritt into the first-string offense at training camp in no-huddle and two-minute situations. Proving it in a game-day environment is the next challenge, but the Commanders are fully prepared for the backfield force to seize the moment.
All eyes will be on Croskey-Merritt when his number is called. Don't be shocked if the draft afterthought continues his rapid ascent into a prominent role when it's all said and done.
More Commanders news and analysis