Top insider uncovers Commanders' true feelings on Jacory Croskey-Merritt

There was collective dismay among the fan base when the Washington Commanders placed summer sensation Jacory Croskey-Merritt as their fourth running back option before Week 1 against the New York Giants. Although disappointing, a leading insider revealed how the rookie's talent levels are truly being perceived in the building.

And his findings don't exactly suggest he'll be Washington's RB4 for long.

The Commanders thought enough of their backfield options to trade Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers for nothing more than a sixth-round pick. Fans concluded this was a massive vote of confidence in Croskey-Merritt, who quickly rose from seventh-round obscurity to force his way into the team's plans.

Commanders remain extremely high on Jacory Croskey-Merritt despite RB4 status

That might not be the case, at least initially. The Commanders will lean heavily on veteran Austin Ekeler to pick up the slack. Chris Rodriguez Jr. is expected to be the short-yardage and goal-line back. Jeremy McNichols' presence on special teams is valued by the coaching staff, so a situation could emerge where Croskey-Merritt doesn't even suit up this weekend against the New York Giants.

That's to be determined. But regardless of Croskey-Merritt's status in Week 1, Jeremy Fowler from ESPN outlined just how high those in power are regarding his long-term outlook after a phenomenal transition from college to the pros.

Another player to watch is rookie Commanders running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt. He might be Washington's RB4 right now, but every time I asked somebody there about their backfield plans, Croskey-Merritt was mentioned early and often. The Commanders are very high on him.Jeremy Fowler, ESPN

This will provide some solace to fans who were perplexed by Croskey-Merritt being buried on the depth chart. And it's also worth remembering that it's called an unofficial depth chart for a reason.

Things can change quickly. Teams could try to get the upper hand by making someone a perceived afterthought before getting them involved more heavily than expected. That could be what the Commanders have in mind for Croskey-Merritt, although there is just no telling for sure.

Keeping the bigger picture in mind is crucial. Croskey-Merritt gained momentum at training camp and his limited involvement during the preseason. He also missed a lot of football last year and was a Day 3 pick. Expecting miracles was always unrealistic, so this might be a gradual route to prominence.

And that's fine.

Fowler's report isn't a secret. The Commanders think a lot of Croskey-Merritt. But if he needs a little extra polish before confidence increases, that's far better than putting the first-year pro out there before he's ready.