The Washington Commanders are making a surprising move by adding more depth to their running back group, which already includes Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Jeremy McNichols. As all three players enter their final contract year, it seems like general manager Adam Peters is looking to secure a future asset. They have selected Jacolby Croskey-Merritt, a player whose NCAA eligibility issues hindered his last season at Arizona, potentially indicating that the team sees untapped potential in him.

While the addition of another running back may raise eyebrows given the already crowded backfield, it is a strategic move aimed at maintaining a strong offensive arsenal. Croskey-Merritt, who was anticipated to be a hidden gem in the draft, may surprise many in 2025 if he finds his footing with the team.

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.

Boise State alumni are making a significant impact in the NFL playoffs, with former players John Bates and Jeremy McNichols representing the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship Game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Bates, a tight end, has been instrumental in the playoffs, most notably making a crucial third-down reception in the divisional round. McNichols, serving as a backup running back, also scored a pivotal touchdown that solidified their win over the top-seeded Detroit Lions.

Meanwhile, Khalil Shakir, another Boise State product, is making waves as a wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills. He has emerged as a key target for quarterback Josh Allen, contributing significantly to the team's victories in the playoffs, including impressive performances against the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens.

As the playoffs continue, the spotlight remains on these Broncos alumni, showcasing their skills at the highest level of professional football.

The Washington Commanders showcased resilience and depth in their recent victory against the Atlanta Falcons, particularly after losing receiver Noah Brown for the season. In Week 17, the team relied on a collective effort from receivers Dyami Brown, Jamison Crowder, and notably Olamide Zaccheaus, who emerged as a standout performer. Zaccheaus led the team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards, proving crucial in their playoff push.

Olamide Zaccheaus, originally an undrafted free agent, has made a significant impact since rejoining the Commanders under head coach Dan Quinn. His performance against the Falcons was remarkable, as he caught 13 passes for 155 yards and three touchdowns, contributing significantly to the team's offensive success. Zaccheaus’s ability to capitalize on opportunities has been vital, especially with the upcoming challenge against the Dallas Cowboys.

Coach Dan Quinn’s aggressive play-calling was evident as he opted for fourth-down conversions multiple times, showcasing his confidence in the team's potential. The Commanders executed these plays effectively, leading to three touchdowns, demonstrating their capability to perform under pressure. However, there were also areas of concern, particularly with the performance of star receiver Terry McLaurin, who struggled to make an impact in the game.

Despite the victory, the Commanders face challenges moving forward, including maintaining discipline on the field. They committed 12 penalties, raising concerns about their ability to sustain success in the playoffs. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. also highlighted the need for improvement in defending outside runs, as lapses in execution nearly cost them the game against the Falcons. As the playoffs approach, the Commanders must refine their game to ensure they can compete effectively against top-tier teams.

The Washington Commanders are riding high after a significant victory against the Philadelphia Eagles, yet they face challenges in their running game. Despite Jayden Daniels' impressive performance with 81 rushing yards, the team's running backs collectively managed only 32 yards, a troubling statistic for the offense. In preparation for their upcoming matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is emphasizing the need for improvement in this area.

Kingsbury acknowledged the limitations of practice time during this part of the season, citing the necessity to keep players healthy amidst injuries. He stressed the importance of making each practice session intentional and focused on enhancing their running game. The Commanders have shown potential recently, particularly in their defensive efforts against the run, but the upcoming game will be crucial for their offensive progression.

If the Commanders can successfully establish their running game against the Falcons, it could significantly boost their chances of victory and pave the way for a postseason berth. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team seeks to capitalize on this opportunity and improve their performance in critical areas.