The Washington Commanders are off to a decent start in the year, featuring a 2-1 overall record. Washington started the year with a commanding 21-6 season-opening win over the New York Giants, which was then followed by a loss to the Green Bay Packers and a 41-24 victory over Las Vegas.
However, fans will have to hope a new wrench in the way doesn’t shake things up; running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt did not see practice on Wednesday due to a knee injury. The news comes after Croskey-Merritt led the Commanders’ backfield in offensive snaps (23 of 58) this past Sunday against the Raiders.
What is the Status Update on Jacory Croskey-Merritt Entering Week 4?
Croskey-Merritt was not necessarily all that efficient with his touches (nine for 31 yards from scrimmage), but he still managed to salvage his day against the Raiders with a rushing touchdown.
It’s being reported that the practice rest is simply a precautionary measure, but the decision was made due to a sore knee.
Croskey-Merritt was drafted in the seventh round (pick No. 245) back in 2025 out of his college years with Arizona. Before Arizona, he played for the New Mexico Lobos and ran for 1,190 yards in 12 games on 189 carries with 17 rushing touchdowns; he was also named a Honorable Mention All-America by College Football News.
His draft selection came after his 2024 season saw him rush for 106 yards and one touchdown on 13 carries against his former team of New Mexico. The 5’11”, 208-pound player has rushed for 125 yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries in Croskey-Merritt‘s three league games played so far this year.
This latest injury update for the Commanders comes after Austin Ekeler suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.
Ekeler ran a route with 5:50 remaining in the eventual 27-18 loss to the Packers and fell to the ground without any contact. He needed to be helped off the field before being carted to the locker room. Ekeler exited the locker room with a walking boot and on crutches and was subsequently diagnosed with a torn right Achilles tendon.
Back to Croskey-Merritt’s injury, Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic said it’s nothing serious and wouldn’t be surprised if he’s available for practice on Thursday.
Washington next plays the Atlanta Falcons (1-2) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday; kick-off is at 1 p.m. EST.