Veteran running back Jerome Ford has officially signed a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders, strengthening the team’s backfield alongside Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt and Rachaad White, reports Baltimore Chronicle. Ford, a fifth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Cincinnati, spent his first four seasons with the Cleveland Browns, where he recorded a career-best 1,132 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns in 2023 while starting 12 games. Despite limited action in 2025, including just 24 carries behind Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson, Ford maintained consistent pass-catching numbers, securing at least 26 receptions for the third consecutive season.
The terms of Ford’s agreement with Washington have not been publicly disclosed, though it is confirmed to be a one-year contract. Across his four seasons in Cleveland, Ford accumulated 1,463 rushing yards on 340 carries with seven touchdowns, while catching 107 passes for 647 receiving yards and five receiving touchdowns, averaging 4.3 yards per carry and six yards per reception. These stats underline Ford’s versatility as both a runner and receiver, a skill set that aligns with Washington’s evolving offensive strategy.
Entering the 2026 offseason, the Commanders had only one running back under contract, Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt. By signing Ford alongside veteran Rachaad White, the team now possesses a three-man depth chart at the position. Washington employed a committee approach last season following Austin Ekeler’s season-ending Achilles injury, with Croskey-Merritt and Chris Rodriguez Jr. sharing the load. Should Head Coach Dan Quinn and new offensive coordinator David Blough adopt a similar strategy in 2026, Ford could compete for meaningful snaps.
While likely to start as the third option in the rotation, Ford offers reliable depth for Washington. Croskey-Merritt is expected to lead carries between the tackles after totaling 805 yards and eight touchdowns on 175 attempts as a rookie, and White brings significant pass-catching ability, averaging 51.25 receptions per season over his four-year career and ranking 16th in Pro Football Focus’ pass-blocking grades for running backs last season. Ford’s well-rounded abilities ensure that he can step in effectively if injuries impact Croskey-Merritt or White, providing a dependable veteran presence for Blough to utilize.
Ford’s addition appears to be a cost-effective move for the Commanders, providing experienced depth without committing to a long-term deal, reinforcing the team’s flexible strategy at running back as they enter the 2026 season.
Earlier we wrote that Detroit Lions sign Christian Izien to one‑year deal, adding versatile NFL defensive back
