Kliff Kingsbury just sent a loud message about breakout Commanders rookie

Excitement is growing around the potential role of seventh-round running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt in 2025. And one subtle clue indicates that the Washington Commanders are eager to see how he handles some significant responsibilities in the coming weeks.

Croskey-Merritt set out his stall early. He might be the No. 245 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he's already got his sights set on shaking up the backfield dynamic. His strong start to Washington's offseason program built early momentum. He's raised the tempo even higher throughout training camp so far.

Reporters, coaches, and fans have all taken note. Croskey-Merritt displayed the same decisive explosiveness and contact balance during two padded practices to further raise optimism. And according to those in attendance, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury introduced a new wrinkle for the rookie that brings significant intrigue.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt rewarded for exceptional start with first-team reps at Commanders camp

Kingsbury gave Croskey-Merrit some work with the first-string offense as their two-minute drill running back alongside quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels. This was primarily down to veteran Austin Ekeler getting a rest day from the coaching staff, but it cannot be seen as anything other than encouraging.

It proves Croskey-Merritt is gaining Kingsbury's trust. There is a long way to go, and how the player performs in joint practices and preseason will ultimately determine his role. At the same time, he's coming along far quicker than even the brightest optimist anticipated so soon into his NFL journey.

Any reps Croskey-Merritt gets with the first team offense are going to serve him well. He's willing to do whatever it takes to make a lasting contribution this season. However, it would be stunning if the Commanders didn't roll with Brian Robinson Jr. and Ekeler as their experienced starting running back tandem initially.

This allows Croskey-Merritt some extra time to develop and get a true feel for what the NFL is like from the sidelines. Rookies don't have to get carries to grow, but that's what the East-West Shrine Bowl Offensive MVP has in his sights.

If it takes a little longer, that's fine too. But looking at the concerns around Robinson and Ekeler heading into the campaign, Kingsbury should keep integrating Croskey-Merritt with the first string to ensure he's fully ready when his number is eventually called.

Things couldn't be going much better for Croskey-Merritt. And if anyone deserved a little bit of luck after a turbulent final season in the college ranks, it's him.