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Commanders Pivot to Committee Backfield After Brian Robinson Trade

The move signals defined roles with Jacory Croskey-Merritt on early downs, Austin Ekeler on passing situations.

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.
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Overview

  • Washington traded Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers for a 2026 draft pick, vacating the early-down job he had held.
  • ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports the staff favors rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt for early-down and short-yardage work, with Austin Ekeler expected to handle third-down receiving duties.
  • ESPN’s John Keim projects a four-back roster featuring Ekeler, Croskey-Merritt, Chris Rodriguez Jr., and Jeremy McNichols.
  • Keim adds that Deebo Samuel could see occasional snaps in the backfield as the team leans into versatility.
  • Fantasy outlook: Yahoo ADPs list Croskey-Merritt at 119.5 and Ekeler at 127.7 overall, while Rodriguez strengthened his case with 62 yards on six preseason carries.