Commanders Conclude Rookie Minicamp with Promising Performances

The Washington Commanders wrapped up their 2025 rookie minicamp on Sunday, with first-round offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. and seventh-round running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt emerging as early standouts. The three-day camp, held at the team’s Ashburn facility, provided a first glimpse of the franchise’s draft class in action, offering optimism for a roster aiming to build on last season’s playoff push.

Josh Conerly Jr.: Anchoring the Offensive Line

The Commanders’ top pick (No. 18 overall) lived up to his billing as a potential Day 1 starter. The 6'6", 315-pound tackle out of Oregon showcased the athleticism and technical refinement that made him a coveted prospect:

• Pass Protection Prowess: Conerly shut down edge rushers in one-on-one drills, displaying quick lateral movement and a strong punch to neutralize speed. His footwork drew praise from offensive line coach Juan Castillo, who noted, “He’s already playing with the patience of a veteran.”

• Run Blocking Versatility: During team sessions, Conerly opened lanes for backs with aggressive downblocks and second-level pulls, aligning with OC Kliff Kingsbury’s zone-heavy scheme.

• Leadership: Despite his rookie status, Conerly took command of the huddle, correcting alignments for fellow linemen. “He’s a sponge,” said head coach Dan Quinn. “You can see why he was a cornerstone of Oregon’s offense.”

Jacory Croskey-Merritt: A Late-Round Steal?

The 5'9", 205-pound running back from New Mexico turned heads as the camp’s most dynamic playmaker. A seventh-round flier (No. 228), Croskey-Merritt’s agility and versatility stood out:

• Elusiveness: He weaved through traffic in 11-on-11 drills, turning check-downs into explosive gains. His 4.38 speed translated seamlessly, particularly on outside zone runs.

• Receiving Threat: Croskey-Merritt snagged several contested catches in red-zone work, showcasing soft hands and route-running nuance. “He’s a mismatch in space,” said RBs coach Anthony Lynn.

• Special Teams Value: The rookie took reps as a kick returner, leveraging his vision to exploit seams. With incumbent RB Brian Robinson Jr. entrenched as the starter, Croskey-Merritt’s special teams role could secure his roster spot.

Additional Notables

• Third-round CB Elijah Jones (Boston College) locked down receivers in press coverage, though he faces a steep climb in a crowded secondary.

• Fifth-round WR Jamari Thrash (Louisville) flashed crisp route breaks but struggled with drops in traffic.

Coaching Staff Reactions

Coach Quinn emphasized the camp’s competitive tone: “These guys came ready. Josh and Jacory set the bar, but the entire group showed the grit we’re building here.” GM Adam Peters added, “This class has the DNA to contribute early. The work starts now.”

Next Steps

The rookies will join veterans for organized team activities (OTAs) later this month, where Conerly is expected to compete with Cornelius Lucas for the starting right tackle job. Croskey-Merritt, meanwhile, will battle Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jonathan Williams for backup snaps.

Conclusion

While minicamp performances come with caveats, the Commanders’ 2025 draft class—headlined by Conerly’s polish and Croskey-Merritt’s explosiveness—offers hope for immediate impact. As Quinn’s squad eyes a deeper postseason run, these rookies could prove pivotal in bridging the gap between promise and contention.