The Washington Commanders took a calculated risk by letting running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. walk in free agency. He performed well under difficult circumstances, showing tremendous resolve along the way. But with new offensive coordinator David Blough emphasizing more explosive plays, they opted not to give him another deal.
That was probably a blow to Rodriguez. Fortunately, he put out enough good film over the last two years for another team to take the plunge. The former Kentucky star signed a decent contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who desperately needed a backfield boost after Travis Etienne Jr. left for the New Orleans Saints.
An opening is there for Rodriguez. But according to reports, it'll take him a little longer to stake a claim.
Former Commanders RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. suffers disappointing injury setback
More than a few eyebrows were raised when Rodriguez didn't show up for some of Jacksonville's organized team activities. This was certainly out of character for someone who'd displayed exceptional commitment throughout his time in Washington, leading to the belief there was more to it.
That turned out to be accurate.
According to Ryan O'Halloran of the Florida Times-Union, Rodriguez underwent surgery on his left foot after experiencing discomfort. The Jaguars thought it was necessary, but reports also suggest he could return in time for training camp if there are no setbacks.
It's not ideal, but better for something like this to happen now than later in the summer or even during the regular season.
Rodriguez is used to overcoming adversity. He bounced on and off the practice squad in Washington, but he kept plugging away. After making the squad in 2025, he was firmly on the fringes. But when his number was called, the 2023 sixth-round selection almost always delivered the goods.
These experiences will come in handy as he looks to impose himself elsewhere. And in terms of his outlook with the Jaguars, it seems pretty secure.
The Jaguars will get Bhayshul Tuten involved, who flashed brief promise as a rookie last year. Rodriguez is expected to be the tone-setting option on early downs, a role he occupied on the Commanders. There aren't any immediate dangers to his role, so it's a matter of focusing on his rehabilitation and ensuring his foot is strong enough to impact Jacksonville's offense when the real action arrives.
As for the Commanders? They are moving forward with a committee approach. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, Jerome Ford, Jeremy McNichols, and sixth-round rookie Kaytron Allen are looking for their fair share of touches. Not all of them will go through, which will be among the most fascinating dynamics to watch throughout preparations for the new season.
Those plans didn't include Rodriguez. But even though this is a disappointing setback, it's not the end of the world for him at this stage.
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