"His vision between the tackles stands out first, as he consistently identifies creases early, presses his leverage effectively, and understands how to manipulate second-level defenders to create extra yardage. That vision is paired with an electric first step following the mesh point, allowing him to capitalize before the lanes close. And while the former Alabama State-to-Arizona product isn't a back who needs perfect blocking surfaces to be productive, his ability to get north quickly and generate momentum through contact has translated to the professional level."
"However, Croskey Merritt has been different. In limited but increasingly meaningful opportunities throughout his rookie campaign, he has shown the traits teams seek when trying to uncover value late on Day 3. That skill set is reflected clearly in the production. Croskey-Merritt enters the season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles as the NFL leader among rookie running backs in touchdowns with eight - the most for a seventh-round selection in the last three decades."
Week 18 functions as an extended evaluation window for teams out of postseason contention, and the Washington Commanders view the regular-season finale as an opportunity to assess young talent. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, a seventh-round rookie, has outperformed typical late-Day-3 expectations through limited but growing opportunities. He demonstrates advanced vision between the tackles, consistently identifying creases early, pressing leverage, and manipulating second-level defenders to create extra yardage. His burst after the mesh point and ability to get north quickly generate momentum through contact, making him effective in short-yardage and goal-line situations despite smaller size. Croskey-Merritt leads rookie running backs with eight touchdowns and heads into the season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles with roster implications.
Read at Riggo's Rag
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