Jeremy McNichols: Everything you need to know

The Commanders re-signed McNichols to a one-year deal on Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. McNichols played a key role on special teams while also handling a change-of-pace role for Washington last season, rushing 44 times for 221 yards and a score in addition to securing 25 of 31 targets for 196 yards across 17 regular-season appearances. He projects more realistically for a pure depth role in 2026, however, after the Commanders brought in a pair of capable pass catches in the form of Rachaad White and Jereme Ford (shoulder) to contribute alongside returning ballcarrier Jacory Croskey-Merritt.

McNichols rushed 44 times for 221 yards and a touchdown while catching 25 of 31 targets for 196 yards across 17 regular-season games in 2025. With Austin Ekeler (Achilles) sustaining a season-ending injury early into the Commanders' 2025 campaign, McNichols was thrust into the role of the team's primary pass-catching running back. The Boise State product performed well, recording a career-high 417 total yards while averaging 6.0 yards per touch. Set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, McNichols could draw interest from teams seeking a third-down back ahead of the 2026 season.

McNichols carried the ball once for minus-2 yards and secured all three of his targets for 12 yards during Thursday's 30-23 loss to the Cowboys. McNichols saw little involvement on offense even with Chris Rodriguez (illness) a late scratch for Thursday's divisional contest. Instead, Jacory Croskey-Merritt dominated backfield opportunities, rushing 11 times for 105 yards and two touchdowns. If Rodriguez is able to retake the field Week 18 against Philadelphia, expect McNichols to revert to his usual No. 3 role.