Commanders Running Back Croskey-Merritt Ruled Out for 49ers Game

Washington loses top ground weapon

The Washington Commanders will be without their top running back on Monday night. Jacory Croskey-Merritt will not play against the San Francisco 49ers due to a groin injury, head coach Dan Quinn confirmed.

Quinn described the issue as a reinjury. Croskey-Merritt previously missed the final two preseason games with a groin problem. He dealt with the injury heading into Week 5, when Washington played to a 27-27 tie with the New York Giants. Croskey-Merritt ran for 82 yards on 11 carries in that game, but he saw only one carry after the third quarter and did not practice at all this week. He currently leads the team with 239 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Battered backfield and receiving updates

With their top runner sidelined, the Commanders will turn to Rachaad White and Austin Ekeler. Both players are dealing with their own health concerns. White was limited during Friday's practice with a shoulder issue after taking part fully a day earlier. Ekeler, who joined the team before Week 4, was also limited with a chest issue.

Jeremy McNichols might offer extra depth in the backfield. McNichols began the year on injured reserve with a quad injury suffered over the summer, but he will travel to San Francisco and could be activated on Monday.

At wide receiver, Quinn did not clarify whether Stefon Diggs will return. Diggs missed the Giants game with a hamstring injury and was limited in Friday's practice. If Diggs plays, it will mark the first time he, Terry McLaurin and quarterback Jayden Daniels share the field since Week 2.

Defensive reinforcements on the way

Washington could receive help on defense. Cornerback Trey Amos and safety Nick Cross were both full practice participants this week. Amos has been on injured reserve with an ankle issue. Cross has been out since Week 2 with an internal injury. Both players could be ready to suit up against the 49ers.

What it means for the next game

The Commanders face a tough road test while managing several injuries across their roster. Here is the outlook according to our model.

Washington Commanders at San Francisco 49ers (NFL, Tue, 20 Oct): San Francisco 49ers win 76%, Washington Commanders win 24%; projected score San Francisco 49ers 30, Washington Commanders 22. Our safest pick: Under 59.5 points.