Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt: A Detailed Profile

Key Takeaway: Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt transformed from an unknown zero-star recruit in Montgomery, Alabama, into a seventh-round NFL draft pick for the Washington Commanders. His story is about hard work and includes impressive records at several colleges. His dynamic skills also led him to win MVP at the East–West Shrine Bowl. His vision, power, and speed shine both on the field and at his Pro Day. This shows he could take on a valuable role in the pros.

Early Life and High School

Jacory Croskey-Merritt was born on April 12, 2001, in Montgomery, Alabama. He attended Sidney Lanier High School. There, he played running back. He earned second-team All-State (Class 6A) and two-time All-Metro honors. He rushed for 1,363 yards and scored eight touchdowns on 210 carries. He also made 23 catches for 382 yards and two more touchdowns. Still, major scouting services rated him as a zero-star recruit. Croskey-Merritt decided to play college football at Alabama State University. He had offers from other similar programs but chose Alabama State.

Collegiate Career

Alabama State Hornets (2019–2022)

After redshirting in 2019, Croskey-Merritt became the Hornets’ featured back:

  • 2022 Season: 120 carries for 526 yards (4.38 ypc) and 4 touchdowns
  • Career Totals (2019–2022): 1,164 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns over four seasons

In 2022, seeking greater exposure, he entered the NCAA transfer portal.

New Mexico Lobos (2023)

Croskey-Merritt transferred to the University of New Mexico for the 2023 season. He delivered one of the best single-season back performances in the school’s history.

  • Rushing: 189 carries, 1,190 yards, 17 touchdowns (6.29 ypc)
  • Receiving: 8 receptions, 72 yards, 1 touchdown
  • Honors: Second-team All-Mountain West

He made history by rushing for 200 yards in two games in a row. He ran for 204 yards at Fresno State in Week 13 and 233 yards against Utah State in the final game. This was the first time a Lobo running back achieved this. After the season, he again entered the transfer portal.

Arizona Wildcats & Ole Miss Interlude (2024)

I first went to the University of Arizona. Then, I had a short time at Ole Miss. Eventually, I came back to Arizona. Eligibility issues from jersey number problems linked to his 2019 redshirt at Alabama State kept him to just one appearance in 2024.

  • Single Game (vs. New Mexico): 13 carries, 106 yards, 1 touchdown

After that season, he entered the 2025 NFL Draft. He also earned MVP honors at the East–West Shrine Bowl, rushing for 97 yards and scoring two touchdowns.

Collegiate Statistics Summary

Team Year(s) Carries Rush Yards Yards/Carry Rush TDs Receptions Rec Yards Rec TDs
Alabama State 2019–2022 …¹ 1,164 - 13 - - ->---
– – 2022 Season 2022 120 526 4.38 4 - - –--
New Mexico 2023 189 1,190 6.29 17 8 72 1
Arizona Wildcats 2024 13 106 8.15 1 - - –--

The exact number of carries at Alabama State isn’t publicly shared. However, you can find the total yardage and touchdowns.

Pre-Draft Measurables and Athletic Profile

At his Pro Day leading up to the 2025 draft, Croskey-Merritt posted the following numbers:

Measurement Result
Height 5 ft 10¼ in (1.78 m)
Weight 206 lb (93 kg)
Arm Length 31¾ in (0.81 m)
Hand Span 9 in (0.23 m)
40-Yard Dash 4.45 s
10-Yard Split 1.50 s
20-Yard Split 2.59 s
20-Yard Shuttle 4.44 s
Three-Cone Drill 7.28 s
Vertical Jump 41.5 in (1.05 m)
Broad Jump 10 ft 4 in (3.15 m)
Bench Press (225 lb) 17 reps

All values recorded at his Pro Day.

2025 NFL Draft and Professional Prospects

Croskey-Merritt was picked 245th overall by the Washington Commanders in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year rookie contract on May 9, 2025./strong>. His mix of powerful running, sharp cuts, and pass-catching skills means he can help on early downs and in shared backfields. Scouts have highlighted:

  • Vision and Patience: Recognizing cutback lanes and moving runs to the edges.
  • Contact Balance: Maintains forward momentum after initial contact, aiding yards after contact.
  • Receiving Upside: Comfortable catching screens and outlet passes, projecting as a third-down back.

His Shrine Bowl MVP performance had 97 yards and two touchdowns. This proved he can excel in every part of the game against the best players.

Personal Life and Character

  • Nickname: Likes to be called “Bill.” It’s inspired by the cartoon Little Bill and fits his almost bald look as a child.
  • Community Roots: He is active in youth football camps in Montgomery during college offseasons. He believes in giving back to his hometown community.

Off the field, teammates see him as a humble leader. He excels in team settings. He began as a no-star recruit and turned into an NFL draft pick. His path shows his grit and strong work ethic.

Outlook and Impact

As a late-round pick, Jacory Croskey-Merritt must work hard to secure a spot in a tough backfield. However, his:

  • Explosive collegiate production across three programs
  • Impressive Pro Day athleticism
  • Versatility as both a runner and receiver

position him to compete for situational work early in his career. In Washington’s offense, if he can adapt his vision and balance to pro lanes, he might become a key player in rushing rotations and passing-game packages.

To sum up, Jacory Croskey-Merritt’s journey is all about progress. He moved from being an unnoticed high school player to a college record-setter. Now, he’s on his way to the NFL. His mix of on-field skill, athletic ability, and strong drive sets him up for success in the pros. He’s a player to watch as the Commanders aim to strengthen their backfield for the 2025 season and beyond.

References: Jacory Croskey-Merritt – Wikipedia.