Commanders' Jacory Croskey-Merritt Suffers Shoulder Injury, Impacting Preseason Participation

What's Happening?

Jacory Croskey-Merritt, a rookie running back for the Washington Commanders, sustained a minor shoulder injury during a preseason game against the New England Patriots, which ended in a 48-18 loss. According to John Keim of ESPN.com, Croskey-Merritt was held out of a subsequent scrimmage but is expected to return to practice soon. Despite the injury, he remains a strong candidate for a Week 1 roster spot, having been the first running back through the rotation in the preseason opener. His performance placed him ahead of teammates Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez, while Brian Robinson and Austin Ekeler were rested.

Why It's Important?

Croskey-Merritt's injury could affect the Commanders' running back depth as they prepare for the regular season. His potential absence from upcoming preseason games might impact his readiness and the team's ability to evaluate their roster options. The Commanders are likely to rely on Croskey-Merritt for significant contributions, given his position in the rotation. His recovery and return to practice are crucial for maintaining the team's offensive strategy and ensuring a smooth transition into the regular season.

What's Next?

Croskey-Merritt's participation in the upcoming exhibition game against the Cincinnati Bengals remains uncertain. The Commanders will monitor his recovery closely to determine his availability for future games. His performance in practice and preseason games will be pivotal in securing his spot on the Week 1 roster. The team may need to adjust their lineup and strategy depending on his recovery progress.