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4w ago

Commanders Lean Into 'Bill' as Croskey-Merritt's Role Grows After Strong Debut

National broadcasts now use his preferred nickname after a standout debut.

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Sep 7, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt (22) reacts after a play during the second quarter against the New York Giants at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Washington posted a Schoolhouse Rock–style 'I'm Just a Bill' video and team graphics reflecting the rookie’s preferred name.
  • Jacory Croskey-Merritt rushed 10 times for 82 yards and a touchdown in Week 1, including a 42-yard burst and four runs of 10-plus yards.
  • Austin Ekeler remains listed as the No. 1 back, but Croskey-Merritt functioned as the No. 2 with a 23-snap workload as Washington continues a committee approach.
  • Adam Schefter reported he asked to be called 'Bill' on broadcasts, and Fox’s Kevin Burkhardt and Tom Brady used the name during Washington’s opener.
  • His seventh-round draft slide is tied to an NCAA eligibility ruling from a 2019 redshirt jersey mix-up, leaving only one Arizona game on 2024 tape before strong Shrine Bowl showings and pro-day testing.