Two Commanders stories stood out this summer, underscoring the patience, perseverance, and potential turning points that can shape a season.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt stepped onto the scene with a story that tugged at the heartstrings. Drafted No. 245 overall in 2025, he was widely expected to go higher, but NCAA eligibility issues paused his ascent. Rather than fade, he stayed close to the team’s orbit, helping teammates at Arizona’s facility during the pre-draft period and earning key praise from the Commanders’ evaluators. In camp, Croskey-Merritt has hit the ground moving, running with purpose and aggression that has turned heads in the backfield. Kliff Kingsbury has begun integrating him into the first-team offense as the rookie makes his case, even as Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler hold down the top spots. If the speedy, persistent rookie keeps this momentum, he could push for a larger role in the rotation sooner than expected, potentially stepping into RB3 duties as the competition unfolds.
On the defensive side, veteran safety Jeremy Reaves is delivering a parallel feel-good arc. Revered for his locker-room leadership and standout special-teams play—where he has built an All-Pro reputation—Reaves has long been viewed as a one-trick contributor. The new staff’s plan to involve him more on defense marks a notable shift. Joe Whitt Jr. signaled the intent to unlock Reaves’ playmaking instincts, and the veteran has responded in kind. He’s been standout in camp, showing ferocity and poise in equal measure and thriving in three-safety looks alongside Quan Martin and Will Harris. If Whitt’s schematic concepts take hold, Reaves could become a meaningful defensive contributor, a development that would be a win for the depth and versatility of the secondary.
These two narratives illustrate the Commanders’ ongoing theme this offseason: resilience, opportunity, and a willingness to adapt. Croskey-Merritt’s road from adversity to opportunity highlights the team’s belief in his potential and willingness to give young players a chance to contribute. Reaves’ potential expanded role showcases the trust being placed in veterans to expand their impact beyond special teams, reinforcing the squad’s competitive edge as camp progresses.
Summary and outlook:
– Croskey-Merritt is turning early opportunities into tangible momentum, with a realistic shot at RB3 if the current trend holds.
– Reaves is proving that his energy and instincts can translate to meaningful defensive roles, especially in flexible, three-safety concepts.
– Together, these developments point to a Commanders squad that values grit, versatility, and a deep roster ready to seize rotations when opportunities arise.
Additional notes to consider:
– If Croskey-Merritt solidifies a spot in the rotation, Washington’s backfield depth could become a weapon in multiple formations, offering more balance and options for the offense.
– Reaves’ success in a broader defensive role could incentivize more sub-packages that keep the defense unpredictable and adaptable against diverse opponents.
– As camp continues, keep an eye on how both players adapt to evolving schemes and how their contributions translate into preseason opportunities and, eventually, regular-season responsibilities.
Overall, the stories of Croskey-Merritt and Reaves provide a hopeful spin: players overcoming obstacles and seizing chances to expand their impact, while a team pieces together a more dynamic, resilient unit for the season ahead.