No matter which player gets drafted in the selection process, each one has a player they look to idolize themselves after and try to be like.
For the Washington Commanders and late-round running back Jacory Crosky-Merritt, that comparison is for one of the top running backs in modern history,
Washington selected the Arizona running back late to be able to provide necessary depth to the offense behind Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler. Crosky-Merritt, though, believes he can be a future star in the league similar to Alabama star Mark Ingram.
"Just being tough, being physical, making defenders not want to attack you. That's the main thing that I took away from Mark Ingram, and I feel like that's the only way to play the position is just being violent and running with anger," Croskey-Merritt said. "I've been waiting for this moment my whole life, and I've been with family the whole day, and we're just excited to get this moment."
Ingram ran for over 8,000 yards in his 13-year career with the Saints, Ravens, and Texans. He was considered one of the more consistent runners in the league during his time.
If Crosky-Merritt can have the kind of impact Ingram had, he'll enjoy a nice career on his own.
And Washington may be a perfect start for him - especially with Jayden Daniels leading the way at quarterback.
Crosky-Merritt battled injuries throughout his college career, but believes he has all the tools to be successful. It's just a matter of if he is able to put it all together moving forward.
