Jacory Croskey-Merritt - Commanders RB
This is becoming a trend, and that's a good thing.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt is blazing a trail at training camp. The seventh-round running back is already getting reps with the first-string offense. He's gaining plaudits from fans, teammates, and coaches alike. There is purpose and aggression to everything he does, and the rookie is all but confirming his place on the 53-man roster for good measure.
Croskey-Merritt is carrying the football like his career depends on it. The NCAA's woeful decision to revoke his eligibility had cataclysmic implications on his draft stock, but it's lit a fire under the backfield force that's difficult to ignore.
The Washington Commanders implemented a lot of running plays on Day 7, which was in pads once again. Unsurprisingly, Croskey-Merrit quickly emerged as one of the genuine standouts.
The speed is real. The explosiveness and decisiveness are nothing short of outstanding. Croskey-Merrit believes he can take the football to the house every time he gets it. And when he spots a seam, the first-year pro has the conviction to go through it without hesitation.
It's hard to fathom the amount of momentum building around Croskey-Merritt. This is extremely unusual for someone taken No. 245 overall in any draft. But this is starting to feel different.
Zach Ertz - Commanders TE
Everyone knows what Zach Ertz can do. The Commanders might have concerns around other position groups heading into the new campaign, but they are fully aware of the tight end's dependability and ability to come through in the biggest moments.
Ertz galvanized his career with the Commanders last season. He was one of Jayden Daniels' most trusted targets — someone he looked to frequently in critical stages of close contests. The former second-round pick almost always delivered, and he deservedly received another one-year deal from the franchise before free agency.
It seems like the same trend is going to continue this time around.
Ertz and Daniels put their blossoming red-zone connection to good use during team scrimmages on Day 7 of training camp. There is a telepathic reading between the two that is difficult to stop. It also helps that the Stanford product is adept at making tough catches look routine, whether he creates separation or not.
The Commanders gave Ertz a new lease of life. He's keen to build on his career renaissance, although it would be disappointing if Ben Sinnott didn't start eating into his targets as the campaign progresses. Until then, the three-time Pro Bowler remains a focal point.