Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Saturday, September 13, 11:55 AM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler suffered a torn Achilles during Thursday night's loss to the Green Bay Packers. Ekeler injured his ankle on the game's final drive while stepping back awkwardly. The lead back for Washington through the first two weeks, Ekeler totaled 14 carries for 43 yards and added five receptions for 38 yards. With 2024 starter Brian Robinson Jr. already traded, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt will now step into the starting role. Ekeler's contract expires after this season, making the injury an even bigger blow for the former star running back.

Friday, September 12, 9:26 PM

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt is expected to step in as the Washington Commanders' starter following the devastating Achilles injury to Austin Ekeler in Thursday night's 27-18 loss to Green Bay. Croskey-Merritt has flashed efficiency early, posting 14 carries for 99 yards and a touchdown through two games despite playing fewer than 33% of the snaps. With only Jeremy McNichols currently active alongside him, the rookie should handle the bulk of early-down rushing duties, while McNichols sees work in passing situations. Chris Rodriguez Jr., a healthy scratch in the first two games, is also a candidate to be active moving forward. While Croskey-Merritt entered the season as a deep sleeper, he suddenly finds himself in line for a heavy workload. He's now an important fantasy asset with starting potential for the remainder of the 2025 season.