The Washington Commanders' running back dynamic is quickly becoming one of the more fascinating stories of the offseason. Even running backs coach Anthony Lynn is struggling to find a frontrunner right now, though that will probably become clearer as intensity gradually ramps up into training camp and beyond.
And on the first day of Washington's mandatory minicamp, the conundrum just got even more crowded.
After being held out of organized team activities, Jacory Croskey-Merritt was back on the practice field with his teammates. It was a welcome sight, one that should provide the second-year pro with the platform needed to flourish when things get tougher.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt is back to further complicate Commanders' backfield dynamic
Croskey-Merritt blazed a trail this time last year, emerging as a summer star when little was expected of the seventh-round selection. Even more impressively, he kept this going in the regular season, putting together a sensational rookie campaign that came with plenty of plaudits.
Bill! Bill! Bill! pic.twitter.com/T69YV5owRx
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) June 16, 2026
The Commanders secured one of the 2025 draft's real steals in Croskey-Merritt. There was the inevitable rookie wall midway through the campaign, but 801 rushing yards and eight touchdowns represent a tremendous return in Year 1 of his professional career.
Even so, the Commanders are going to make him earn everything again this time around.
Washington revamped its backfield options throughout the offseason. Rachaad White and Jerome Ford were both acquired in free agency. Jeremy McNichols was re-signed to a one-year deal, and the Commanders also spent a sixth-round selection on Kaytron Allen. This raises urgency, and everything must be earned.
Croskey-Merritt isn't one to take things for granted, which should serve him well.
He’s back! Great to see Commanders RB Bill Croskey-Merritt as a full participant in mini camp. pic.twitter.com/TvL0nPYrxb
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) June 16, 2026
After having his eligibility revoked just one game into the 2025 season at Arizona, his draft stock took a significant tumble along with it. Not even an MVP performance in the East-West Shrine Bowl was enough to turn the tide, but the Commanders saw something in Croskey-Merritt worth taking a chance on.
They were right. And the extra competition for carries is only going to spur him on further in the weeks and months ahead.
Nobody was panicking too much about Croskey-Merritt's absence at OTAs, but it's nice to get him on the field quickly. The Commanders will likely use a committee approach among the available options. However, last season's most heartwarming success story earned a prominent role, and he offers a change-of-pace, off-tackle rushing presence capable of turning small creases into big gains.
The man they call Bill is back. And fans that took him to their hearts during his rags-to-riches campaign can breathe a little easier now.
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