Commanders can finally dump draft disappointment if rising star delivers at camp

Adam Peters has had no trouble disposing of Ron Rivera's draft picks since taking over as Washington Commanders general manager last year. He could dispose of another if a rising offseason star delivers at training camp.

Rivera didn't get much right when picking players from the college ranks. None of his first-round picks are still around. Aside from safety Quan Martin and offensive lineman Sam Cosmi, nobody could be considered a true franchise cornerstone to build around.

There's no doubt Peters has more about him. His first draft reaped some hefty rewards. Hopes are high that the 2025 crop can do the same, albeit with less margin for error after some frantic trade activity left the Commanders with just five selections.

Things look bleak for Chris Rodriguez Jr. entering Commanders' training camp

The final one of those was Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Washington believes it might have something to do with the underappreciated running back, who saw his stock plummet after the NCAA revoked his eligibility just one game into his transfer to Arizona last season.

Croskey-Merritt is already making up for some critical lost time. If the same trend continues when things get more intense at training camp, it'll be a huge plus for Washington's ground attack.

It won't be good news for everybody. Chris Rodriguez Jr. could be the odd man out in this scenario. He got a new one-year deal from the Commanders this offseason, but that doesn't come with any guarantees whatsoever regarding his roster status.

Rodriguez was a sixth-round pick in 2023. He's flashed brief moments of promise when called upon, but never fully established himself. The fact that Washington used him so sparingly in the playoffs when they needed an injection of energy in the running back room wasn't exactly a glowing recommendation.

With Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Jeremy McNichols also back with the squad, Rodriguez faces an uphill battle this summer. If Croskey-Merritt builds on his sensational start to life in Washington, Peters won't hesitate to remove the former Kentucky standout from the equation entirely.

What comes next is down to Rodriguez. He needs to show resolve and make the most of every carry coming his way in the preseason. Even that might not be enough, but it should cement his status on the practice squad if nothing else.

The stakes have been raised. How Rodriguez meets this challenge is crucial.