Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt: From Montgomery to Washington and Into Fantasy Football Relevance
From Alabama Roots to NFL Rookie
Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt’s journey to the NFL is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Montgomery, Alabama, and a product of Sidney Lanier High School, Croskey-Merritt wasn’t a blue-chip recruit. He began his career at Alabama State, where he steadily developed into a reliable running back.
Over four seasons with the Hornets, he rushed for more than 1,100 yards and 13 touchdowns, showing flashes of the explosive ability that would later put him on the radar of NFL scouts.
In 2023, he transferred to New Mexico, where he broke out with a 1,190-yard, 17-touchdown season, earning second-team All-Mountain West honors. His resilience was tested again in 2024 at Arizona, where he was limited to just one game due to an eligibility issue. Still, in that lone appearance, he ran for 106 yards and a score, proving his ability to make the most of opportunities.
He capped off his college career by earning Offensive MVP honors at the East–West Shrine Bowl, rushing for 97 yards and two touchdowns on the national stage.
Draft Day and Washington Opportunity
Despite his strong finish, Croskey-Merritt had to wait until the 7th round of the 2025 NFL Draft, where the Washington Commanders selected him with the 245th pick.
What he lacks in draft pedigree, he makes up for in work ethic and determination. Washington’s staff praised his professionalism during training camp, and his preseason flashes — including a 27-yard touchdown run against the Bengals — have already made him a fan favorite.
Adding intrigue to his opportunity, veteran Brian Robinson Jr. may be on the way out amid trade rumors, and with Austin Ekeler aging, Croskey-Merritt could find himself climbing the depth chart quickly.
Why “Bill”? The Story Behind the Nickname
Fans may notice that Croskey-Merritt prefers to be called “Bill”. The nickname comes from his childhood, when friends thought his haircut resembled the cartoon character Little Bill. The name stuck, and today he embraces it fully on and off the field.
Fantasy Football Outlook: Sleeper Potential
So what does Croskey-Merritt’s arrival mean for fantasy managers?
Reasons to Buy In:
Opportunity: With Brian Robinson’s future uncertain, touches could open up quickly.
Big-Play Ability: His burst and balance were evident in college and preseason.
Work Ethic: Coaches love his attitude and preparation, which often leads to more playing time.
Reasons for Caution:
Crowded Backfield: Austin Ekeler and other veterans are still in the mix.
Ball Security: Fumbles were an issue in college, especially near the goal line.
Passing Game Role: Limited history as a high-volume pass catcher.
Fantasy Strategy:
Redraft Leagues: Late-round flier (Rounds 10–12), especially in deeper formats.
Dynasty Leagues: A smart stash with potential long-term upside if Robinson is moved.
Best Case Scenario: ~1,000 yards and 8 TDs if he earns lead back duties.
Worst Case Scenario: RB3/4 role with limited weekly value.
Final Thoughts
Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt is the definition of an underdog story: from zero-star recruit to Shrine Bowl MVP, to 7th-round pick now fighting for a real role in Washington.
For fantasy managers, he’s a high-risk, high-reward stash — the kind of late-round lottery ticket who could pay off big if the Commanders’ backfield shakes out in his favor.
At minimum, he’s a name to remember and track closely as the season unfolds. After all, in fantasy football, it’s often the overlooked “Bills” who win you championships.