Questions to answer
— What’s next for Croskey-Merritt? Croskey-Merritt said during the team’s locker room cleanout day that he is looking forward to hearing his coaches’ feedback and using that to improve for his second season. The rookie has plenty to work on, particularly as a pass-catcher with just 68 yards on nine receptions. The good news is that there is a foundation for Croskey-Merritt to build on, as he had four games with at least 80 rushing yards and 362 yards after contact. Croskey-Merritt has the potential to be the Commanders’ starting running back in 2026, but he’ll need a strong offseason to do so.
— Bill and who else? Croskey-Merritt is set to be the only running back on the Commanders’ roster when the new league year begins in March. Rodriguez is a restricted free agent, which means that the Commanders have the right to match any offer he receives in free agency. Rodriguez could come back, but the Commanders would still need to add to the room even if he does re-sign with them. There are some intriguing players set to be available, including Najee Harris, Travis Etienne and Javonte Williams. However, what players the Commanders target will depend on new offensive coordinator David Blough’s vision for the offense.
Free agency
Click HERE to see all the players the Commanders could pursue in free agency with their available cap space.
Draft
Click HERE to see Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr.’s Big Board of draft prospects.