Jacory Croskey-Merritt lit up Shrine Bowl action with 97 yards on 11 carries and 2 rushing TDs, then blistered the combine with top-80th percentile marks in the 40, 10-yard split, vertical, and broad jump. On the path to 2025 fantasy relevance, Croskey-Merritt has surged onto the Washington Commanders’ depth chart as a legitimate early-down back option, especially if Brian Robinson Jr. is moved. The backfield remains crowded, but Croskey-Merritt’s preseason emergence suggests he could become a primary rusher if opportunity opens up, reducing McNichols/Rodriguez's hold. Offensively, Kliff Kingsbury's balanced system should keep him in the mix, though Deebo Samuel’s presence and a less RB-target-heavy approach cap ceiling without volume.

His background — Alabama State, New Mexico, then Arizona — shows a steady rise with efficiency in rushing and a limited but capable receiving role. While his speed tests were impressive, PFF’s tracking hints at slight speed below the elite top-tier backs, tempered by relative quickness against peers. If Washington finds a trade partner for Robinson, Croskey-Merritt could leap into a top-32 draft consideration and become a value late in rookie/redraft windows, though immediate fantasy upside hinges on volume and OL health.

Daniels is hailed as the ultimate prototype by a Hall of Famer, setting the stage for his fantasy ceiling. Steve Young’s praise centers on Daniels’ ability to process under pressure, keep athleticism intact, and threaten the line of scrimmage in big moments. The Washington Commanders’ rookie-like signal-caller is framed as a dual-threat with a high ceiling in both passing and rushing, suggesting sneaky fantasy relevance if he wins the job and stays healthy.

The piece also notes Kliff Kingsbury’s involvement as offensive coordinator, hinting at a creative scheme that could maximize Daniels’ upside. With Young signaling that Daniels outpaces the usual trio of elite quarterbacks in prototype, managers should watch for early-season usage and red-zone design that could juice Daniels’ rushing TD potential and overall fantasy value.

Mike Vrabel's recent comments on Kliff Kingsbury resonate with both nostalgia and insight, as he succinctly captured his memory of the former Arizona Cardinals coach in just six words: "I just remember the way he looked." This statement underscores the impact Kingsbury had during his tenure as a coach, highlighting both the visual impression he left on players and coaches alike, and the challenges he faced leading a team in a competitive environment. Vrabel's reflections may also serve as a reminder of the intense pressure coaches endure in high-stakes situations.

This experience is particularly relevant as the New England Patriots navigate their own challenges this season. Their coaching strategies and adaptability will be crucial as they look to redefine their identity in the league. As the Patriots assess their roster and strategies, they likely reflect on the importance of leadership and the coaching style needed to succeed in the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL.