From zero-star recruit to NFL rookie touchdown leader
In short: Jacory Croskey-Merritt's journey to the NFL is a masterclass in persistence over pedigree. Despite being overlooked as a high school recruit, he navigated three different colleges and complex eligibility hurdles to become the most productive rookie rusher of his draft class.
Croskey-Merritt began his collegiate journey at Alabama State, where he was initially viewed as a zero-star recruit. During four years with the Hornets, he accumulated 1,164 yards and 13 touchdowns before entering the transfer portal in 2022. His move to the New Mexico Lobos proved transformative; during the 2023 season, he exploded for 1,190 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, earning second-team all-Mountain West honors.
His path was nearly derailed by a technicality in 2024. After transferring to Arizona, an NCAA discrepancy regarding his jersey number—which had been used by another player while he was redshirting at Alabama State in 2019—created eligibility issues. This administrative hurdle limited him to just one game in 2024, where he recorded 106 yards and a touchdown before declaring for the 2025 NFL draft.
The comeback was swift. The Washington Commanders chose him during the seventh round (245th overall) following his offensive MVP title at the East–West Shrine Bowl. During his first year, Croskey-Merritt excelled by securing multiple 'Rookie of the Week' awards and a 72-yard touchdown run, which stands as the fifth longest single rush in franchise records. He concluded the campaign with eight rushing touchdowns, a figure that topped all rookies.
Beyond the stats, his identity is tied to personal narrative. He prefers the nickname 'Bill,' inspired by the character from the children's series Little Bill, a nod to his near-bald hairstyle during his youth.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Jacory Croskey-Merritt
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/history-jacory-croskey-merritt.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Born on this day · More in History · Latest · A–Z · All topics
