Mon Nov 17 16:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

Headline: Commanders Plummet: Once-Dominant Run Game Vanishes Amidst Team-Wide Struggles

Washington, D.C. – The Washington Commanders are facing a crisis, marked by a four-game losing streak and a multitude of issues plaguing both the offense and defense. While quarterback Jayden Daniels and wide receiver Terry McLaurin have battled injuries, and Head Coach Dan Quinn has taken over defensive play-calling, a concerning decline in the team’s run game has flown under the radar.

Early in the season, the Commanders boasted a formidable rushing attack, utilizing a committee approach featuring Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Chris Rodriguez Jr., and Jeremy McNichols. Seventh-round rookie Croskey-Merritt emerged as a standout, even leading the league in yards per carry at one point.

However, the once-powerful run game has disappeared in recent weeks. Croskey-Merritt, who had a breakout performance in Week 5, has become virtually invisible. This decline is attributed to several factors, including defensive adjustments by opponents, a lack of creative play-calling from offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, and the team’s inability to establish a lead.

“The running back position is perhaps the most dependent on surrounding structure in football,” experts say. The Commanders have been playing from behind, limiting running opportunities. Fixing the run game hinges on the team finding a more solid foundation overall.

With mounting losses and key aspects of their team underperforming, the Commanders face an uphill battle to turn their season around.

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