The Washington Commanders will be without running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt for their Week 10 matchup against the New York Giants.

Croskey-Merritt had emerged as an important part of Washington’s rushing attack after earning a starting role early in the 2026 season. However, a recurring injury has disrupted his progress and forced the Commanders to adjust their offensive plans.

Croskey-Merritt’s absence is challenging given Washington’s current position in the standings. They entered Week 10 with a 2-5-1 record after suffering a 20-13 loss against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 9. With another important game on the way, Washington will need other offensive contributors to step up and help fill the void left by Croskey-Merritt.

What Happened to Jacory Croskey-Merritt?

Croskey-Merritt has been dealing with a groin injury that first emerged during Washington’s training camp. The issue forced him to miss the Commanders’ final two preseason games, raising concerns about his availability heading into the regular season.

However, Croskey-Merritt was cleared to play in the season opener despite remaining limited in practice because of the groin injury, and he appeared in Washington’s first five games before aggravating his groin injury during Washington’s Week 5 tie against the New York Giants on October 11.

Despite dealing with the issue, he still recorded 11 carries for 82 rushing yards and a touchdown in the game.

Croskey-Merritt was unable to participate in practice ahead of Washington’s Week 6 game against the San Francisco 49ers. The Commanders later decided to place him on injured reserve on October 19, sidelining him for an extended period. Washington went on to lose to San Francisco, 23-17.

Before being sidelined, Croskey-Merritt was Washington’s leading rusher this season. He recorded 239 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns, while earning a 70.5 grade in the PFN’s NFL RB Impact Rankings, placing him at No. 34.

The injury has also interrupted the momentum Croskey-Merritt built during his rookie season in 2025. He led the Commanders with 805 rushing yards last season, averaging 4.6 yards per carry.

However, Croskey-Merritt’s efficiency has dipped to 3.6 yards per attempt this year before being forced out of the lineup.

When Will Croskey-Merritt Return to the Game?

After being placed on injured reserve, Croskey-Merritt was required to miss at least four games before becoming eligible to return. Based on his Oct. 19 placement on injured reserve, Croskey-Merritt could become eligible to return for Washington’s Nov. 23 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters addressed the situation during an appearance on “The Sports Junkies” last week. Peters said the Commanders hope Croskey-Merritt can return against the Bengals when he becomes eligible to come off injured reserve.