The Washington Post/Getty
“Yeah, it’s been interesting,” Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury said about RB Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt on Thursday. “He’s a guy who I have a ton of respect for his journey, there’s no doubt.”
Croskey-Merritt captured the hearts of NFL fans across the globe over the summer.
The seventh-round rookie out of Arizona steadily climbed the depth chart over the course of training camp, culminating in a breakout primetime preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals, during which he had 11 carries for 46 yards, including a 27-yard touchdown run.
Going by Bill and with a swagger and determination that’s endeared him to millions, Croskey-Merritt is sure to be a factor for the Commanders this year.
In fact, Washington traded away starting RB Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers a few weeks ago, paving the way for Croskey-Merritt to see the field.
Kliff Kingsbury on Bill Croskey-Merritt’s Work Ethic and Drive
Greg Fiume/GettyLANDOVER, MARYLAND – AUGUST 18: Jacory Croskey-Merritt #32 of the Washington Commanders rushes for a touchdown in the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium on August 18, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
Croskey-Merritt has a fascinating story. Originally a small-time high school recruit, he committed to Alabama State, where he played as a freshman in 2019.
An injury wiped out his sophomore year, causing him to redshirt, but he played again in 2021 and 2022 before transferring to New Mexico in 2023.
That season, he had 1,190 yards and 17 touchdowns on the ground, adding seven receptions for 72 yards and another score through the air.
He was a big-time transfer to Arizona in 2024 and dominated in their opener, with 13 carries for 106 yards and a touchdown.
However, the NCAA ruled him ineligible before Week 2 last year.
During his redshirt year in 2020, his number at Alabama State had been reassigned to another player who the NCAA had footage of, and they did not believe Croskey-Merritt nor the Alabama State coaching staff when they told him he didn’t play.
As a result, Croskey-Merritt was forced to miss the rest of the season, but he never wavered in his commitment to the team.
“To stay at Arizona and just rep on practice squad every day when you’re in college, like I wouldn’t have done that,” Kingsbury said.
“I would’ve gotten a job or done something else. I don’t like football as much as [Croskey-Merritt] does, apparently,” he said with a chuckle.
“So for him to do that, go to an All-Star game, and then just kinda earn the reps, like he can’t get enough.
He wants to know about it, wants to practice, he’s always trying to get to the front of the line, and so that’s been really cool to see. We’ll see how it all goes, but yeah it’s a big hype train for ol’ Bill.”
The Washington Commanders’ Depth Chart at Running Back
Those strong words from Kingsbury are a positive sign for Croskey-Merritt, but even with Robinson no longer on the roster, it’s a crowded depth chart in Washington.
Chris Rodriguez and Austin Ekeler are sure to be factors as well, and it might take some time for Croskey-Merritt to earn a featured role. But clearly, the coaching staff loves him.
News
Life off the field is taking center stage for Dak Prescott as he and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos navigate a complicated custody situation following their high-profile breakup. After what many described as a messy split, both sides are now reportedly focused on finding a stable path forward — putting co-parenting and long-term priorities ahead of past tensions. For Prescott, the situation adds a deeply personal layer to an already demanding career with the Dallas Cowboys, where pressure never really lets up. Sources suggest efforts are being made to keep matters as private and constructive as possible, even as public interest continues to grow. Fans have been watching closely, with reactions ranging from support to curiosity about how things will unfold. But one key approach both sides are taking is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could define how this situation evolves moving forward.
Dak Prescott and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos are taking steps to amicably come to terms on a temporary custody arrangement…
Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld Announce Birth of First Child — The Buffalo Bills Star and Hollywood Actress Share Joyful News, Marking a New Chapter as They Welcome Their Baby Into the World.
Bills quarterback Josh Allen and his wife, actress Hailee Steinfeld, are officially a family of three. The couple announced Thursday…
A powerful full-circle moment is unfolding for an NFL player whose actions off the field once made headlines for all the right reasons. After bravely pulling a man from a burning car and saving his life, the National Football League star is now being handed a career lifeline of his own — a second chance that’s capturing attention across the football world. At the time, his heroic act drew widespread praise, showing a side of athletes fans don’t always get to see. Now, as he looks to revive his career, that moment is being remembered as more than just a headline — but a reflection of character. Teams are always weighing talent against intangibles, and stories like this can carry real weight. As news spreads, support is pouring in from fans and insiders alike. But one key detail about this opportunity is what’s standing out most. And it could determine whether this comeback truly takes hold.
KJ OSBORN has reportedly agreed a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans. The wide receiver, 28, has not played in…
All eyes were on Fernando Mendoza — and he delivered. With representatives from the Las Vegas Raiders in attendance, Mendoza used Indiana Pro Day to make a powerful statement, strengthening his case to be the No. 1 overall pick. From sharp throws to confident command, everything about his performance suggested a quarterback ready for the next level. For teams searching for a franchise leader, moments like this carry serious weight — especially when decision-makers are watching up close. The Raiders’ presence only added intrigue, fueling speculation about their intentions at the top of the draft. As buzz builds, Mendoza is quickly shifting from prospect to centerpiece of the conversation. But standout performances come with rising expectations. And one specific element of his Pro Day is what scouts are talking about most. It might be the factor that ultimately separates him from the rest of the class.
BLOOMINGTON, IN — The Raiders have been careful not to prematurely anoint Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the first pick overall in next month’s…
Jason Kelce isn’t holding back — and this time, his comments are aimed straight at the Detroit Lions. The former star sparked buzz after roasting the franchise for what he sees as a repeat of a controversial retirement situation that previously left fans furious with ownership. By bringing it back into the spotlight, Kelce has reignited debate around how the organization handles major player decisions. For Lions supporters, it’s a sensitive topic — one tied to past frustrations and lingering questions about leadership choices. Kelce’s remarks have quickly made the rounds online, with fans both agreeing and pushing back on his take. As the conversation grows, attention is shifting back to the decision itself and whether lessons were truly learned. But one specific comparison Kelce made is what’s drawing the most attention. And it might explain why this issue still resonates so strongly today.
The Detroit Lions have threatened to damage their relationship with former center Frank Ragnow after asking him to return a…
A troubling incident has put former Dallas Cowboys player Trysten Hill back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Hill was arrested following allegations of assault involving a pregnant woman, with details from the incident quickly sparking outrage online. Images reportedly showing him smiling after the arrest have only intensified reactions, adding another layer of controversy to an already serious situation. As the case unfolds, questions are being raised about accountability and the broader issue of off-field conduct among professional athletes. Legal proceedings are expected to determine what actually happened, but the public response has been swift and emotional. For many, the focus remains on the severity of the allegations and the impact beyond football. But one specific detail in the arrest report is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could play a key role in how this case develops.
Former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Trysten Hill was arrested in Texas for allegedly assaulting a pregnant woman. Hill, 28, was…
End of content
No more pages to load
