Jacory Croskey-Merritt opened with starter-like preseason buzz, but Washington’s backfield is crowded and the rookie’s path isn’t straightforward. A trade of Brian Robinson Jr. clears some space, yet the skill-set gap for pass-down work and the presence of Chris Rodriguez Jr. for goal-line carries keep Croskey-Merritt from an immediate, substantial role. His home-run speed and change-of-pace profile suggest hot-hand weeks if he earns third-down chances, but a long-term, consistent role isn’t guaranteed. Week 1 at the Giants could produce a cameo if depth-chart surprises persist.

The situation blends potential with volatility: seventh-round picks rarely inherit big workloads right away, and Croskey-Merritt’s injury-shortened college track adds to the skepticism. A Puka Nacua-like breakout is possible but not probable, making Croskey-Merritt a high-upside, low-floor DFS/NFLPA bet rather than a reliable fantasy starter—at least until he proves himself on passing downs and special teams.

Deonte Banks faces a proving-year as New York Giants week 1 starter spotlight meets a Washington Commanders test. Banks and Cor'Dale Flott share the CB2 role behind Paulson Adebo, while Dexter Lawrence II anchors an interior that could free up outside pass rush. Giants staffers question Banks’ maturity and accountability, even as offensive depth charts press three-QB plans. The vibe about the defense remains confident, with Okereke poised to recapture 2023 form and power Giants’ mix of coverage and interior disruption.

The Week 1 setup hinges on Banks’ growth and the defense’s ability to withstand shootouts, as observers gauge whether Banks can translate offseason commitment into consistent ball location and scheme discipline. Flott and Adebo provide needed depth, and Lawrence and Okereke give the Giants a versatile spine to lean on against a diverse opponent slate.

Washington's 2025 offense depth chart centers on Austin Ekeler as the clear RB1, with Terry McLaurin healthy and listed as a starter in Week 1 against the Giants. Noah Brown resurfaces as a reliable three-wide option, while Brandon Coleman is healthy enough to start at left guard. The RG confusion (Allegretti or Wylie) hints at a flexible interior, and rookie Josh Conerly Jr. is penciled in as a two-tackle pathobuild with Laremy Tunsil at LT. This setup signals Ekeler’s pass-game role and McLaurin’s ceiling, while rookie protection upside could lift early-season efficiency for Washington’s fantasy options.

Week 1 game plan leans on Ekeler’s workload management and McLaurin’s target share, with Conerly anchoring the edge and Conerly/Wylie rotating in RG depending on packages. The Giants present a test for the line’s cohesion and for No. 2 backs; Chris Rodriguez or Croskey-Merritt could emerge in relief. Overall, Washington looks to balance veteran reliability with upside from youth along the front five and at receiver.

Bottom line for fantasy managers: confirmed mainball carriers and McLaurin’s health are watch points, while the RG/RT combinations may dictate run lanes and pressure tolerance. If Conerly’s transition to RT goes smoothly and Allegretti/Wylie hold the interior, Ekeler’s inside runs should stay manageable and McLaurin could approach a high-target game in a favorable Week 1 matchup.

Thomas' Week 1 status is in focus as he recovers from Lisfranc foot surgery. He missed the entire preseason, returned to practice last week, and the Giants will decide Sunday readiness after a cautious ramp. His presence would stabilize pass protection and help Saquon Barkley’s workload in a potentially tough opener.

The Lisfranc fracture happened against Cincinnati last October; Thomas played six games before surgery and began camp on the PUP list before activation. If he suits up, the left side of New York's line should look closer to full strength; if not, the Giants may lean on quick passes, run-heavy concepts, and extra protection to shield Jones and Barkley.

Fantasy managers should monitor late-week practice reports for Thomas’ workload and participation. A healthy Thomas boosts Jones’ time and Barkley’s space; a limited return or absence could shave ceiling off the offense and tilt Week 1 toward protection schemes and play-calling that favor safer, quicker options.

Russell Wilson's arrival in New York signals a shift toward steadier quarterback play for the Giants, with fantasy managers eyeing a clearer, more efficient passing attack and a boost for Barkley and the receiving corps if the offense clicks. The league-wide question remains how long Wilson can sustain this surge, but the immediate fantasy floor appears higher and red-zone chances could rise.

With Wilson under center, expectations hinge on how quickly he mesh es with the new system and weapons. If the offense clicks early, Giants players could see more consistent weekly value, though durability, scheme fit, and surrounding talent will ultimately shape the ceiling for fantasy lineups.