The Washington Commanders are eyeing future talent in the running back position, underscoring the urgency of finding successors for Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler, both set to enter the final year of their contracts in 2025. In a strategic move, they selected rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt in the seventh round of the draft. Despite limited playtime at Arizona, where eligibility issues restricted him to just one game, Croskey-Merritt showcased his potential with over 100 rushing yards. Previously, he had a stellar season at New Mexico, amassing 1,190 yards and 17 touchdowns.

The team's management has expressed confidence in Croskey-Merritt's abilities, noting his athleticism and skill set. With a promising offensive line and a need to enhance their run game, there could be opportunities for him to secure meaningful snaps next season, potentially serving as a key contributor alongside Robinson and Ekeler.

The Washington Commanders concluded the NFL Draft by selecting linebacker Kain Medrano from UCLA in the sixth round and running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt from Arizona in the seventh. These picks were the final two of the Commanders' five selections made during the draft weekend, following trades that brought in cornerback Marshon Lattimore, wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and left tackle Laremy Tunsil.

Medrano served as a captain for the Bruins, starting all 12 games in his final season and earning third-team All-Big Ten honors. His ability to force three fumbles last season highlights his defensive capabilities, making him a promising addition to Washington's linebacker corps, where he can learn from seasoned veterans Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu. Meanwhile, Croskey-Merritt adds valuable depth to the running back position, especially considering that starters Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. faced injury challenges in the previous season. Despite missing most of last year due to eligibility issues, Croskey-Merritt impressed with a 1,190-yard season at New Mexico before transferring.

The Washington Commanders are looking to bolster their backfield following a strong 2024 season, where they finished with the third-best rushing offense in the NFL. The emergence of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who led the team with 891 rushing yards, has raised questions about their long-term running game strategy. With Brian Robinson Jr. as their primary back, the team may seek a dynamic running back in the upcoming draft to lessen Daniels' rushing burden.

TreVeyon Henderson, a former Ohio State star, is reportedly a strong candidate for the Commanders with their No. 29 overall pick. Henderson is expected to be a top running back in this year’s draft class, which is considered one of the most talented in recent years. ESPN analyst Jordan Reid has highlighted Henderson as a key player to watch, emphasizing his ability to contribute in both rushing and passing situations.

The Washington Commanders continue to bolster their roster by re-signing running back Jeremy McNichols to a one-year deal, a move anticipated by many given his contributions last season. McNichols demonstrated versatility, filling in for starters and recording a career-high 261 rushing yards along with four touchdowns. The financial specifics of the contract remain undisclosed, but this signing ensures the Commanders maintain continuity in their running back unit.

Alongside McNichols, Chris Rodriguez will also return, preserving the entire running back room for the upcoming season. McNichols not only excelled on offense but also proved valuable on special teams, where he participated in 46% of snaps. His performance indicates a reliable backup for Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler, positioning him as a potential fantasy asset, particularly in deeper leagues.

Backup running backs can be a mixed bag in fantasy football, with some producing starter-level numbers while others remain mere specters on the roster. The rankings categorize these players based on their roles, from the top-tier backups who share touches to those waiting for their chance due to injuries. A standout among them is Jahmyr Gibbs, who, despite his backup status, has shown explosive potential, finishing as the top RB in PPR formats. Meanwhile, veterans like Austin Ekeler transition into roles as pass-catching backs, while younger prospects like Tyler Allgeier and Zach Charbonnet offer intriguing upside with their performances.

The landscape features clear backups who have proven their worth, including the likes of Devin Singletary and Gus Edwards, while muddy backfields emerge in teams like Miami and New Orleans, where clarity is needed. Rookies like Jaylen Wright and Kendre Miller face uphill battles for consistent touches, but possess the talent that could make them valuable assets in a pinch.

As the offseason progresses, fantasy managers must keep an eye on the evolving dynamics of these backfields to make informed draft decisions, especially with the impending free agency that could reshape many teams' running back situations.