What will the Washington Commanders do at running back?
The Commanders’ running back room is, frankly, one big question mark. Their top runner, Jacory Croskett-Merritt, led the team as a rookie in 2025. However, he has averaged only 3.6 yards per carry so far in 2026. In his defense, a 48-yard touchdown run against the Seahawks that was called back for a pre-snap penalty would have helped his below-average performance.
JCM injured his groin for the second time this season in the 27-27 tie with the New York Giants, and he missed last week’s 23-17 loss to the 49ers. The Commanders have actually placed JCM on injured reserve, meaning he is out for at least four weeks.
Austin Ekeler was signed to the active roster in hopes he would bring back the explosiveness
he showed in the 2024 season. He has appeared in three games, producing only 31 rushing yards on his eight carries. Ekeler has not been 100 percent, battling some sort of chest injury. Hopefully, the extra week of rest from the bye will help Ekeler recover. It would be great if he were ready to see more action on third down this week, as a receiver coming out of the backfield.
Rachaad White has rushed 36 times for 145 yards and seven rushing first downs. White has also caught 14 receptions for 83 receiving yards, averaging 5.9 yards per catch. But he has also caught two touchdowns and three first downs.
Jeremy McNichols Runs In A Touchdown. Look At The Speed From This Dude.
— SM Highlights (@SMHighlights1) October 20, 2026
But It Ended Up Getting Called Back For A Face Mask On The Offense.
The Running Back Bursts Into The End Zone With Serious Speed Before The Score Is Wiped Out By The Penalty.
Called Back. 😬 pic.twitter.com/s7g81QjP0d
Then there is Jeremy McNichols, who the Commanders signed to their roster for the 49ers game. The Commanders used him trying to run inside, and he gained only 13 yards on his five carries. Then suddenly, McNichols went outside for 31 yards and a game-tying touchdown in the final quarter. But left guard Chris Paul committed a facemask penalty, nullifying the touchdown run.
McNichols will be used on special teams coverage and return teams because he is a big, strong athlete. Perhaps, they should also give him more carries in the run game.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: What will the Commanders do at running back?
