Commanders Build Around Rookie Croskey-Merritt

0:00On March 21st, the Washington commanders head into the 2026 off-season without a big name running back signing, despite early rumors they wanted a heavy duty-type to lead the rush. Instead, they're building around Rookie Jacori Bill Kroski-Marit as a potential starter, backed by smart, low-cost additions to the backfield. They parted ways with Austin Eckler, who's recovering from a torn Achilles at age nearly 30 and signed Ricotte White from the Tampa Bay. Look at years to take over as the past-catching third down back. Meanwhile, they grabbed Jerome Ford off the Cleveland Browns roster, a 27-year-old with solid experience in strong yards per carry numbers. Over his four NFL seasons, Ford brings physicality between the tackles, averaging over four yards of carry in recent years with touchdown production, making him a perfect spell. Guy for Kroski-Marit, they also resigned Jeremy Ming Nichols to a one-year deal for his versatility on third downs and special teams. Kroski-Marit impressed last season with a 50.4% success rate on first down rushes, better

1:05than the league-leading Rams, that has fans and analysts optimistic about his growth. With the draft approaching, the commanders could still grab a talent like Jeremiah Love at pick 7 if he slides, rounding out a deep, balanced, group ready to compete.