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With Rodriguez Out, Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt Seizes Lead Role in Commanders’ Win Over Giants

The seventh-round back capitalized after a pregame groin scratch sidelined Washington’s recent lead runner.

Overview

  • Washington made Chris Rodriguez Jr. inactive for Week 15 with a groin injury, confirming morning concerns after a week of limited practices.
  • ESPN’s Adam Schefter had reported the back would test the injury pregame as a true game-time decision.
  • In Rodriguez’s absence, Jacory Croskey-Merritt handled early-down work and produced 96 rushing yards and a 16-yard score on 18 carries in a 29-21 victory.
  • The Giants have been one of the league’s most generous defenses to running backs, bolstering expectations for Washington’s ground game.
  • Fantasy outlook shifted to Croskey-Merritt as a plug-in flex, with volume upside on the ground but less appeal in PPR formats due to limited passing-game usage.