Washington, D.C. — In a shocking Week 2 twist that could reshape the Washington Commanders’ season, veteran running back Austin Ekeler went down with what’s feared to be a torn Achilles, and just like that — a new name has exploded onto the scene: Jacory Croskey-Merritt.
The undrafted rookie, who barely made the roster out of training camp, is now being called the “best running back alive” by fans on social media after a promising start to his NFL career and a golden opportunity suddenly placed at his feet.
Ekeler’s Injury: The Turning Point
The injury happened late in the fourth quarter during Sunday’s loss to the Packers. Ekeler went down without contact, clutching his ankle — a telltale sign. The Commanders quickly ruled him out, and insiders say the team suspects a full Achilles tear, which could sideline the dynamic back for the entire season, if not longer.
At 30 years old, Ekeler’s future is suddenly uncertain. Achilles injuries are notoriously difficult to return from, especially for players who rely on quick cuts and acceleration — things Ekeler has built his career on.
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Enter: Jacory Croskey-Merritt
While the team, and fantasy managers everywhere, processed the loss of one of the league’s most reliable dual-threat backs, Jacory Croskey-Merritt quietly took the field — and instantly made an impact.
The rookie out of New Mexico has already turned heads. In Week 1, he racked up 82 yards and a touchdown. In Week 2, even in limited snaps, he added another 17 rushing yards, showing burst, vision, and downhill power.
Now, with Ekeler out indefinitely, Croskey-Merritt is expected to step into the lead role — and the hype is already out of control.
“He’s the best running back alive and nobody knows it yet,” one Commanders fan tweeted during the game.
“Give this kid 20 carries, and it’s over for the league,” another wrote.
Is the Hype Real?
Some fans and analysts are already drawing comparisons to other surprise rookie breakouts like James Robinson (Jaguars) or Arian Foster. Both went undrafted — and both became household names in their first seasons.
Croskey-Merritt has the build (5’11”, 215 lbs), the college résumé (17 TDs in his senior season), and now the opportunity. And in the NFL, opportunity is everything.
Still, it’s a huge leap from promising rookie to every-down starter. The Commanders may also rotate in other backs like Chris Rodriguez Jr. or Jeremy McNichols, but the buzz is all on Croskey-Merritt.
What’s Next?
With the Commanders facing the Falcons next week, all eyes will be on the rookie. If Croskey-Merritt can deliver under the spotlight, the “best RB alive” title might not sound so crazy after all.
One thing’s for sure — in just two weeks, Washington’s backfield has gone from veteran stability to rookie mystery, and the entire NFL is watching.
Stay tuned. Jacory Croskey-Merritt’s story might just be the NFL’s next underdog fairytale.