Commanders Add Veteran to Stable of Running Backs

The Washington Commanders are expanding their running back roster by signing veteran Craig Reynolds. ESPN's John Keim reported that the team welcomed Reynolds to their stable after he completed a workout with them over the weekend. At 30 years old, Reynolds has never been considered a leading back, having played in just 60 games and started only two during his career.

However, his addition provides valuable depth for Washington, particularly given that veteran running back Jeremy McNichols is reportedly dealing with a quad injury.

The decision to sign Reynolds makes sense for the Commanders as he shared the field with offensive coordinator David Blough during his time with the Detroit Lions in 2021 and 2023. While Reynolds does not have an automatic pathway to make the team's 53-man roster alongside emerging talent Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, and Kaytron Allen, he is expected to receive immediate playing time.

The team will face the Lions this Saturday during the preseason, marking Reynolds' first opportunity to showcase his skills for the Commanders. Reynolds' professional journey began as an undrafted free agent in 2019, leading him to sign with Washington but eventually being waived during the 2020 season. He then joined the Atlanta Falcons and was signed to a reserve/future contract, though he did not make the cut for the 2020 season either.

His breakthrough came with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he secured his first NFL carry. Reynolds signed a reserve/future contract with the Lions in 2021, where he played as a backup and amassed 654 rushing yards and one touchdown over the next five seasons.