Croskey-Merritt Rookie of the Week: Washington RB Earns First Pepsi Honor

Pepsi Zero Sugar named Washington Commanders’ running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt Rookie of the Week for Week 1.

The 2025 seventh-round draft pick out of Arizona made an immediate impact in his NFL debut. Croskey-Merritt delivered a strong performance as the Commanders opened the season with a victory.

He ran with power and vision throughout the game. His explosive start earned him the first Rookie of the Week honor of his career.

Key Highlights

  • Croskey-Merritt rushed for 82 yards in his first NFL game.
  • He scored his first professional touchdown.
  • His longest run was 42 yards
  • His performance set an early tone for Washington’s ground game.

Croskey-Merritt became the first Commanders player to win Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Week in the 2025 season.

Bill has been on a tremendous role since playing in the 2025 East–West Shrine Bowl. He was named its offensive MVP after rushing for 97 yards and two touchdowns

This award marks a very promising start to his NFL career.