Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Commanders lose a running back

The Washington Commanders have prioritized the defense this offseason. After applying the franchise tag, the Commanders recently inked defensive tackle Daron Payne to a long-term deal. On Monday, the Commanders signed a cornerback for two seasons. On Tuesday, the team parted ways with a running back.

According to Mike Garafolo with the NFL Network, the Commanders released running back J.D. McKissic.

The Commanders are reshaping their scheme under first-year offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Commanders are expected to use Sam Howell at quarterback for his first full season as a starter. The 29-year-old McKissic didn’t seem like a good fit for the new direction of the Commanders offense.

McKissic appeared in eight games for the Commanders last season. He ran the ball for 95 yards and had 173 receiving yards. He’ll get a shot to work with another team this offseason.

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