"That would be seventh-round rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who became the Commanders' story of the offseason. He was so impressive throughout camps and preseason that the team was willing to trade starter Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers. In theory, this was supposed to pave the way for the first-year pro to claim a prominent role."
""It's different than it was 3 or 4 yrs ago. We'll see how many more teams are covering and returning kicks. ... But I do think the safeties and RBs are sometimes your best special teams guys...[in] the return game especially." - Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) September 3, 2025"
"This means that even if Croskey-Merritt isn't getting significant reps early on in the season, he'll have an opportunity to make an impact on special teams and to play his way into the rotation. It wouldn't be unheard of to have a rookie take a backseat for a few weeks while he learns the ropes, with the expectation that he'll have a featured role before too long."
Seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt opened the regular season listed as Washington's fourth running back despite standout preseason play that preceded the trade of Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers. The depth chart places Austin Ekeler, Jeremy McNichols, and Chris Rodriguez Jr. ahead of Croskey-Merritt. The modern running back role often operates as a committee, increasing chances for multiple backs to see snaps. Special teams and return duties can provide immediate opportunities for a rookie to contribute and work into the rotation. The posted depth chart may not perfectly reflect practice usage or game-day involvement.
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