Breakout Alert: Jacory Croskey-Merritt’s Path from Underdog to Fantasy Sleeper

This article examines the remarkable rise of rookie RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt of the Washington Commanders, tracing his ascent from a low-draft status to a attention-grabbing fantasy football sleeper. It details his preseason performance, explores the evolving Commanders backfield, compares his trajectory to similar low-profile breakouts, outlines how fantasy managers can track and draft such value plays, and highlights the edge found in deep leagues and auction settings when identifying hidden gems like Croskey-Merritt.

Overview of Croskey-Merritt’s preseason impact and opportunity

The Washington Commanders rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt—nicknamed “Bill”—has emerged as a dynamic playmaker, amassing 46 yards on 11 carries, including a 27-yard touchdown in his second preseason game against the Bengals. As a seventh-round selection, number 245 overall, his preseason burst is turning heads after a journey marked by minimal college action. At training camp, Croskey-Merritt earned first-team reps and praise from coaches and beat writers, signaling rising confidence in his abilities. This early impact has elevated his profile in fantasy circles as a rookie sleeper worth monitoring.

Commanders’ backfield dynamics and potential role for him

Following the trade of Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers for a 2026 sixth-round pick, the Commanders’ backfield now features Austin Ekeler, Chris Rodriguez Jr., Jeremy McNichols, and Croskey-Merritt, with approximately 225 fantasy touches now up for grabs. Ekeler figures to assume lead duties, but Croskey-Merritt’s preseason momentum positions him as a disruptive force and valuable fantasy asset. With Robinson removed, the door is open for Croskey-Merritt to carve out a meaningful role—especially in goal-line or rotational situations.

Comparison to past low-profile breakouts (e.g. Kyren Williams with Rams)

The rise of under-the-radar players like Kyren Williams with the Rams mirrors Croskey-Merritt’s trajectory: late-round selection, early obscurity, then explosive emergence. His path shares that feel of an unheralded talent surprising a depth chart. Croskey-Merritt’s 2023 New Mexico season delivered 1,190 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, plus eight receptions for 72 yards and another TD, earning second-team All-Mountain West honors. Despite minimal 2024 Arizona action—just a single game yielding 106 yards and a score due to eligibility issues—his Shrine Bowl performance featured 97 yards and two touchdowns, earning him offensive MVP honors. Those flashes echo past low-profile breakout templates, underscoring his sleeper appeal.

How to monitor and pick such players during draft season

Fantasy managers should watch training camp reports, practice usage, and preseason game performance carefully. Croskey-Merritt earned first-team reps in the no-huddle sessions and drew praise from beat writers for his quickness and decision-making. Value arises from monitoring depth-chart moves—like Robinson getting sidelined amid trade discussions—plus preseason box scores highlighting yardage and touchdowns. Tools such as the NFL fantasy draft toolkit help managers spot late-round or undrafted sleepers like Croskey-Merritt, equipping them with the edge to secure breakout talent before rivals do.

Fantasy managers who dig into camp reports, follow preseason usage, and leverage tools like an NFL fantasy draft toolkit are far better positioned to uncover breakout value..

Rookie background and college résumé

Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt, born April 12, 2001, played at Alabama State, where he rushed 120 times for 526 yards and four touchdowns in 2022, totaling 1,164 yards and 13 touchdowns across four years. He then transferred to New Mexico, accounting for 1,190 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns in 2023, plus eight catches for 72 yards and a score. A subsequent move to Arizona was derailed by NCAA eligibility issues tied to a jersey number discrepancy, limiting him to one game with 106 yards and a touchdown in 2024. His performance at the 2025 East–West Shrine Bowl (97 yards, two TDs, offensive MVP) sealed his draft stock.

Draft profile and measurables

The Commanders selected Croskey-Merritt in the seventh round (245th overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft. His Pro Day included a 4.45-second 40-yard dash, 41.5-inch vertical, 10-foot-4-inch broad jump, and 17 bench-press reps at 206 lb, showcasing explosive traits. Analysts viewed the pick as valuable—earning a “B” grade for providing an explosive option the team lacked.

Pre-draft expectations and scouting narrative

Despite his senior season disruptions, draft analysts recognized Croskey-Merritt’s sleeper potential. Pre-draft commentary highlighted his unique story and potential high value relative to late-round draft status. Field Yates listed him among his favorite picks, emphasizing his value in a class where every selection counted.

The value proposition in deeper leagues and auction formats

In deeper or auction leagues, a player like Croskey-Merritt—roster bubble entrant with upward momentum—offers outsized upside at low cost. His preseason performance and camp buzz make him an ideal target in the middle to late rounds or bargain auctions. Managers who identify such players can reap significant rewards if they secure a role in Week 1 or beyond.

Fantasy manager takeaways and closing thoughts

Jacory Croskey-Merritt embodies the underdog sleeper archetype—late-round draft pick, limited college exposure, preseason spark, and opportunity in a shifting backfield. Fantasy managers who scout beyond the obvious veterans, dig into camp reports, follow preseason usage, and leverage tools like the NFL fantasy draft toolkit are better positioned to uncover breakout value. Croskey-Merritt may not yet be a household name, but his trajectory toward volume and impact in Washington makes him one of 2025’s most compelling run-deep additions.

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John Day

John Day is a seasoned sports writer and brings a unique blend of insightful analysis and covers the stories that matter most to sports enthusiasts everywhere.