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Going into training camp, the running back situation in Washington is nothing short of complicated. With two returners, two free agents and two rookies currently occupying spots on the roster, Dan Quinn has kept his eye on the competition since OTAs.
Kaytron Allen, Penn State's all-time leading rusher, fell to Washington in the sixth round due to concerns about his pass-blocking ability and raw explosiveness. However, what Allen lacks in the trenches, he makes up for it in the backfield as a versatile tool for a wide variety of play designs.
"Washington is still hoping for big things out of Bill Croskey-Merritt (one of last year’s late-round gems), and they signed Rachaad White in free agency," Luke Easterling wrote for Athlon Sports. "He’s also a versatile playmaker who can catch the ball out of the backfield and protect the passer, which should allow him to push for third-down snaps. He’s immediately the best short-yardage back on the roster, which should lead to plenty of touchdown opportunities at the goal line."
Kaytron Allen's size raises Commanders' questions
Despite splitting time with Nicholas Singleton, Allen rushed for 1,303 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2025. At 5-foot-11, he doesn't bring the strong physical presence some fans were hoping for out of the group. His ability to make quick cuts in open space and make defenders miss will be the key factor in whether Allen makes the final 53-man roster. Despite his shorter stature, it's not the end of the road. Washington legend Clinton Portis was also 5-foot-11 and became a household name in Washington.
"The Commanders will likely deploy a committee approach in their backfield under new offensive coordinator David Blough. White and Croskey-Merritt have the tools to become a dynamic 1-2 punch, but Washington needs someone to take the heat off in short-yardage situations and in the red zone," Dean Jones wrote.
Washington is no stranger to turning late-round running backs into fan favorites. Drafted in the seventh round, Jacory Croskey-Merritt quickly became a fan favorite with his work ethic and determination to make a difference. After Austin Ekeler went down in Week 2, Croskey-Merritt saw much more playing time and announced himself with a 72-yard touchdown run on Christmas Day against the Cowboys.
