Jeremy McNichols - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders' running back dynamic quietly shifted over the team's offseason program. This is thanks in no small part to the smooth introduction of seventh-round selection Jacory Croskey-Merritt.
Washington believes it has something special on its hands with Croskey-Merritt. The former New Mexico standout might be the No. 245 overall pick, but he's got huge plans to make a considerable impact right out of the gate. And based on his seamless transition, the rookie is well on his way to achieving this objective.
That's not going to be good news for everybody. Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler are safe. That isn't the case with Jeremy McNichols, who's already fighting to stay relevant thanks to Croskey-Merritt's arrival.
McNichols got a new one-year deal this offseason. He was a solid performer when called upon last time around. He's not the most dynamic, but he's a tough runner and a solid professional.
Getting another contract from the Commanders indicates a sense of hope that more is on the way. However, McNichols needs to prove himself all over again in pursuit of making the 53-man roster.
This is dependent on how many running backs the Commanders take through. If it's three, then he might be out of luck. If it's four, McNichols and Chris Rodriguez Jr. will fight it out for the final position in this scenario.
Michael Gallup - Commanders WR
There were opportunities for those in the wide receiver room over Washington's offseason program. This was especially evident at the Commanders' mandatory minicamp, with three established veterans missing time.
Terry McLaurin is holding out, awaiting a lucrative new deal that hasn't arrived as yet. Noah Brown was carted off, but John Keim from ESPN doesn't believe the issue is serious. Michael Gallup's hamstring strain also prevented him from participating, which represented a body blow to his chances of making the 53-man roster.
Gallup unretired this offseason, and the Commanders are giving him a chance to galvanize his career after one year away from the gridiron. His spot isn't guaranteed by any stretch of the imagination, so not being able to leave a real early mark only casts further doubt on his aspirations.
This was a big concern around Gallup before his retirement. Injuries became an ongoing frustration. The fact that these problems are creeping up so soon into his comeback is disappointing.
Couple this with other receivers making their presence felt, and Gallup faces an uphill task when training camp rolls around. He's got the talent, but the need to hit the ground running and force his way into the team's plans cannot be overstated.