Arizona’s Jacory Croskey-Merritt Selected by Washington Commanders in NFL Draft
In a significant moment for Arizona football, running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt has been selected by the Washington Commanders in the seventh round (No. 245) of the 2025 NFL Draft. The 5-foot-10, 206-pound athlete’s path to the NFL has been anything but straightforward.
Croskey-Merritt’s journey faced hurdles last season when the NCAA deemed him ineligible due to a controversial redshirt year at Alabama State in 2019. Despite limited appearances, he showcased his talent in a standout game against his former team. In 2023, he rushed for an impressive 106 yards on just 13 carries, demonstrating his capability on the field.
This year, Croskey-Merritt became the fourth Wildcat player to be drafted, joining standout teammates such as wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, taken in the first round by the Carolina Panthers, and offensive guard Jonah Savaiinaea, who went to the Miami Dolphins in the second round.
Although he was not invited to the NFL Draft Combine, Croskey-Merritt made a name for himself at the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl, where he impressed scouts with two rushing touchdowns and 97 yards on 11 carries, averaging 8.8 yards per rush.
Croskey-Merritt, a Montgomery, Alabama native, has had a noteworthy college career, accumulating 1,239 yards and a touchdown in 36 games at Alabama State and later achieving 1,190 yards and 17 touchdowns during his time with New Mexico. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein noted his “adequate size and impressive cut quickness,” predicting he could serve as a solid RB2 at the professional level.
Croskey-Merritt’s selection marks a promising step toward a bright future in the NFL.
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