Commanders Rookie Sensation Steals the Spotlight from Saquon Barkley with a $37 Million Savings
In the world of professional football, fortunes can change rapidly, exemplified by the contrasting paths of Saquon Barkley and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt of the Washington Commanders. While Barkley, the reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year, has faced challenges this season, Croskey-Merritt is making headlines as a seventh-round draft pick who is defying expectations.
Rookie Sensation Takes the Spotlight
Croskey-Merritt has emerged as one of the most compelling stories of the 2025 NFL season. Over the first five weeks, he has shown remarkable performance, quickly gaining recognition for his on-field talents. Despite being largely overlooked during the draft, he has become a key player for the Commanders, even outshining established stars like Barkley.
Performance Comparison
Both players have played five games this season, but their statistics paint a clear picture of Croskey-Merritt’s superior impact:
| Category | Croskey-Merritt | Barkley |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 283 | 267 |
| Attempts | 43 | 83 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 4 | 3 |
| Yards per Carry | 6.6 | 3.2 |
| Broken Tackles | 6 | 3 |
| Receiving Yards | 54 | 128 |
| Receptions | 5 | 17 |
| PFF Grade | 84.9 | 54.8 |
Croskey-Merritt’s statistics highlight his efficiency. He has accomplished more with fewer carries, showing a yards-per-carry average that is significantly higher than Barkley’s. Moreover, his performance in the rushing department has contributed to his high Pro Football Focus grade, currently standing at 84.9.
Contract and Financial Impact
The financial implications of their respective contracts further illustrate Croskey-Merritt’s extraordinary situation. Barkley signed a two-year, $41.2 million extension, ensuring he remains with the Philadelphia Eagles until 2029. In contrast, Croskey-Merritt, selected as the 245th pick, is benefiting from a modest four-year, $4.3 million deal, with only $105,428 guaranteed. This creates a remarkable $37 million difference between their projected earnings.
Future Prospects
As the season progresses, the Commanders management will likely seek to balance Croskey-Merritt’s rapid rise while managing expectations. The rookie’s partnership with new off-field sponsors, such as Nike, speaks volumes about his potential. Though it remains to be seen if he can maintain his current performance level, his early success may set the stage for a flourishing career.
In summary, Jacobs Croskey-Merritt has emerged as a delightful surprise for the Commanders. As fans celebrate his success, they also relish the excitement of this rookie’s high-stakes journey, especially when measured against the investment in a seasoned player like Barkley.
