The Washington Commanders have officially signed free-agent running back Jerome Ford to a one-year contract, marking a new chapter in the 26-year-old athlete’s professional football journey. This move was confirmed on Saturday, signaling the Commanders’ intent to bolster their backfield with a versatile and experienced player.
Ford spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns, who selected him in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. During his tenure in Cleveland, Ford demonstrated flashes of potential, particularly in the 2023 season when he amassed an impressive 1,132 yards from scrimmage and crossed the end zone nine times. His ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air made him a valuable asset in the Browns’ offensive scheme.
Despite these highlights, Ford’s time with the Browns was not without challenges. Last offseason, he agreed to a significant pay cut, reducing his 2025 salary from $3.49 million to a guaranteed $1.75 million, a move that underscored his commitment to remain with the team amid roster uncertainties. Unfortunately, injuries hampered his progress; a hamstring issue sidelined him in December, leading to his placement on injured reserve on December 9. Prior to that, Ford had not played more than 17 snaps in any game since Week 6, limiting his on-field contributions.
Throughout the 2025 season, Ford appeared in 13 games, though he did not start any. He managed to rush for 73 yards on 24 carries and added 26 receptions for 103 yards, showcasing his dual-threat capability even in a limited role. Over the course of his NFL career, Ford has accumulated a total of 1,463 rushing yards and 647 receiving yards, along with 12 touchdowns across 57 games, including 18 starts. These statistics reflect a player with the skill set to make an impact when healthy and utilized effectively.
The Commanders’ decision to bring Ford on board reflects their strategy to deepen their running back options and add experienced talent to their roster. As Ford embarks on this new opportunity, both the player and the team will be eager to see how his skills translate in Washington’s offensive system. With a fresh start and a one-year deal, Ford has the chance to prove his worth and potentially secure a longer-term role in the league.
In summary, Jerome Ford’s signing with the Washington Commanders is a noteworthy development in the NFL offseason, representing both a fresh opportunity for the running back and a strategic move for the Commanders as they prepare for the upcoming season.
