Jacory Croskey-Merritt was the feel-good story of the Washington Commanders' offseason, going from an unknown seventh-round pick to a key piece in the backfield in only a few short months.
After impressing throughout camps and preseason, the Commanders traded away starting running back Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers. This was the biggest indicator of the confidence around Croskey-Merritt from those in the building.
The quick fan-favorite responded in his NFL regular-season debut by rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown against the New York Giants. He was named Pepsi Rookie of the Week for his efforts, and it was expected that his role would only increase.
Commanders used Jacory Croskey-Merritt sparingly, and it came at a cost
On Thursday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers, Croskey-Merritt's progress took a couple of unexpected twists.
The Commanders seemed hesitant to get Croskey-Merritt involved. This can likely be explained by the fact that they were playing from behind all night, and the rookie is not known as a pass-catching back.
Austin Ekeler is, and after seeing only six carries in Week 1 to Croskey-Merritt's 10, the nine-year veteran was Washington's featured back on with eight carries and a pair of receptions. Like most of the Commanders' offense, he struggled to make an impact, accounting for only 17 yards on the ground and seven more receiving.
Croskey-Merritt equaled Ekeler's total in rushing yards on only half of his carries, which makes one wonder what Washington could've done had he been featured more heavily. The Packers' defense was dominant, but perhaps the No. 245 overall selection could have provided a spark had he been able to touch the ball more than four times.
Only one thing is for certain: Croskey-Merritt won't be left out of the Commanders' game plan moving forward. Unfortunately, it's for the worst possible reason.
Late in the fourth quarter, Ekeler suffered a non-contact injury, which the team has already confirmed is to his Achilles tendon. If it's a tear, that's going to end his campaign and possibly his career.
Assuming Ekeler is out for the season, Croskey-Merritt likely becomes Washington's starting running back. It's not the way anybody wanted to see his rise to RB1 status happen, but the first-year pro must make the best out of a difficult situation to cement his importance.
Ekeler injury or not, the Commanders should be regretting their mistake regarding Croskey-Merritt's usage in Week 2. Now, it's one they won't be able to make again.