Competition is heating up in the Washington Commanders’ running back group.
There’s been plenty of media buzz about the team’s decision to draft Jacory Croskey-Merritt in the seventh round, with one well-regarded analyst even suggesting he could make an immediate impact—assuming he adjusts well during training camp.
Croskey-Merritt has generated significant interest, especially after a controversial NCAA ruling last season stripped his eligibility just one game into his time with the Arizona Wildcats, severely damaging his draft stock. Still, Washington sees untapped potential in the running back and believes he could develop into a valuable asset.
Analyst expects Jacory Croskey-Merritt to shake up Commanders’ RB room immediately
Whether Croskey-Merritt contributes immediately or takes time to develop is still uncertain. However, ESPN’s Matt Miller believes he could carve out a role sooner than many expect—potentially as a special teams returner and a third-down option in his rookie year.
“There’s room for \[Jacory] Croskey-Merritt to get onto the field early as a special teams return man and third-down back,” Miller noted. “The scheme fit and Washington’s need for a pass-catching threat make this a fun pick.”
This outlook puts Austin Ekeler’s role with the Commanders squarely in question. The former undrafted standout from Western Colorado took on kick return and pass-catching responsibilities last season, but a noticeable dip in performance and lingering concussion concerns prompted GM Adam Peters to prepare alternative options in case those issues persist.
Ekeler is well aware of what’s at stake. With critics growing louder and his contract set to expire after this season, he knows he’s running out of time to prove himself. Unfortunately for him, the Commanders can’t afford to be patient if he doesn’t show he can still make a meaningful impact.
The Washington Commanders are clearly in search of a long-term solution at running back. While it would be a major surprise for Jacory Croskey-Merritt to rise all the way to the RB1 spot, especially after missing nearly all of last season due to circumstances beyond his control, he’s entering the league with something to prove—and a chip on his shoulder that could drive an immediate impact.
His emergence has turned up the heat on veterans like Austin Ekeler and the rest of the backfield. The message is clear: they need to elevate their performance quickly, or risk being overtaken. If Croskey-Merritt impresses, the coaching staff won’t hesitate to shake up the depth chart.
As the 2025 season approaches, this position battle will be one of the most compelling to follow. With the Commanders emphasizing competition at every level, only the top performers will earn meaningful roles—regardless of experience or status.
