Commanders RB Bill Croskey-Merritt Embraces the Grind

Washington Commanders running back Jacory 'Bill' Croskey-Merritt is answering Head Coach Dan Quinn's challenge the old-fashioned way: with hard work. After rushing for 805 yards as a rookie, the seventh-round pick knows that in the NFL, just like in America, you've got to earn your keep every single day.

What Did Dan Quinn Demand from Bill Croskey-Merritt?

Running the football was never the issue for Bill. That's exactly why General Manager Adam Peters drafted him in the seventh round back in 2025. But Head Coach Dan Quinn made it clear during OTAs. Bill needs to expand his game. Quinn praised the young back's raw instincts but laid down the law. Bill must elevate his contributions in the passing game and on special teams.

How Is Bill Croskey-Merritt Proving His Merit?

Bill isn't resting on his rookie stats. He's not asking for handouts or making excuses. He's putting his head down and going to work. At mandatory minicamp, Bill made his mindset perfectly clear.

I know I just got to keep working and just being even way better than last year. Like that's my only goal, my only focus. Like just winning and being a whole different version of myself.

That is the spirit of individual merit. Bill knows he has to become a more complete player. The Commanders already know he can hit a hole. Now, he must master pass protections, route details, timing, communication, and ball security. He must prove his value even when the ball is not in his hands.

Why Rachaad White Is Key to Bill's Evolution

Bill knows he can't do this alone. Instead of complaining, he's learning from the veterans in the room. He's leaning on Rachaad White, a smooth receiving back who knows how to stress a defense.

Rachaad, he's been a great teammate. He's very smooth catching the ball. So, I'm gaining knowledge from Rachaad with the receiving stuff. He's been open arms to me, just teaching me how he does it, how he moves.

That's how you get better. You find men who have done the job, and you learn from them. Bill is attacking Quinn's challenge head-on. He didn't leave minicamp as the same player he was when he walked in. He's fighting for his spot, earning his paycheck, and living the American dream through hard work and determination.

Training camp and the preseason will ultimately decide the running back rotation. But Bill's mindset shows he understands the assignment. He's not waiting for anyone to hand him a starting job. He's going out there and taking it.

How many yards did Bill Croskey-Merritt rush for in his rookie season?

Bill Croskey-Merritt rushed for 805 yards during his rookie season with the Washington Commanders.

What did Dan Quinn challenge Bill Croskey-Merritt to improve?

Dan Quinn challenged Bill Croskey-Merritt to improve his contributions in the passing game, special teams, pass protections, and route details.

Who is Bill Croskey-Merritt learning from to improve his receiving skills?

Bill Croskey-Merritt is learning receiving skills from veteran running back Rachaad White.