After getting some outstanding returns from seventh-round running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt during his rookie campaign in 2025, the Washington Commanders are now demanding more. And head coach Dan Quinn teased a potential wrinkle that could further increase his influence.
Croskey-Merritt flashed immense promise in Year 1 of his professional career. Little was expected of the No. 245 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he defied the odds in the best way imaginable on his way to more than 800 rushing yards. This is about taking the next step, and the backfield force is working hard to become the total package.
He showed up to Washington's early offseason program more defined and stronger. Croskey-Merritt sat out OTAs due to a nagging injury, but he got back involved at mandatory minicamp. It's a big positive, and Quinn is looking to unlock something else in the backfield force over the summer.
Commanders looking to experiment with Jacory Croskey-Merritt in the return game
The coach hinted that the Commanders are going to try Croskey-Merritt as a return option in the summer. His ability to cut quickly and overall explosiveness make it an enticing proposition. There wasn't much time to deploy this over the season, but this is the perfect time.
"Certainly, like the receiving part was something that we put a lot of work in and also on the return side, to see would that be something we could add to it. We didn't quite get there where we got enough reps for him to be in that space, in '25. But I think that's something that we can work through, you know, going into this year for sure."
It's an enticing thought. But as Quinn stated, the Commanders are well stocked with kick and punt returners.
Jaylin Lane took a couple of punts back for touchdowns last season. Luke McCaffrey was on a potential Pro Bowl trajectory as a kick returner before breaking his collarbone. But if Croskey-Merritt impresses enough, it's certainly enough to potentially change the dynamic.
Croskey-Merritt's primary responsibilities will be in the backfield. The Commanders will probably move forward with a committee approach under new offensive coordinator David Blough. Rachaad White and sixth-round rookie Kaytron Allen will also be involved, which could leave the second-year pro fresh enough to handle some return duties.
And every little helps.
It's something for fans to monitor over training camp and possibly even the preseason. Croskey-Merritt has the speed and elusiveness to break off big yardage when gaps arrive. It might come to nothing in the end, but it's a scenario Quinn wants to investigate in greater detail.
And considering how much Croskey-Merritt wants to put the team first, he'll be happy to take on the challenge.
Let's see if he's up to the task.
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