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Rookie RB's Rise and Fall: From 7th Round to IR
26 Oct
Summary
- Seventh-round pick became a starter, exceeding expectations as a rookie.
- Rookie running back surpassed 800 yards and scored eight touchdowns.
- Current season struggles include decreased yards per carry and injured reserve status.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt, initially the last running back selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, emerged as a significant offensive contributor for the Washington Commanders during his rookie season. Despite being a seventh-round pick, he started seven games, including the final two, and finished the year with over 800 rushing yards and eight touchdowns, averaging a solid 4.6 yards per carry.
His 2026 season has presented challenges, however. Croskey-Merritt's yards per attempt have decreased significantly, and he is currently on injured reserve due to a groin injury. The Commanders' offensive line has also struggled to create running lanes, impacting the team's overall rushing game, which has seen a marked decline compared to the start of the season.
