The San Francisco 49ers have met with running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt as they continue evaluating players ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. According to Ryan Fowler of The Draft Network, the 49ers are among several teams that met with the former Arizona, New Mexico, and Alabama State prospect at the East-West Shrine Bowl.
A headliner in Frisco last week and the offensive MVP of the game, Arizona RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt met with a long list of teams at Shrine, including the following:
• Broncos
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 5, 2025
• Patriots
• Steelers
• Panthers
• Commanders
• Eagles
• Colts
• Bears
• 49ers
• Packers
The meeting marks the second known time the 49ers have spoken with Croskey-Merritt. The team previously met with him at the Hula Bowl in January, per Steph Sanchez.
Leading up to the East-West Shrine Bowl, Croskey-Merritt had not played since Arizona's 2024 season opener against his former team, the New Mexico Lobos. Before transferring to Arizona, he had an impressive 2023 season with New Mexico, recording 1,190 rushing yards and 18 total touchdowns (17 rushing, one receiving). His career-high 92.7 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus that season ranked fourth among all collegiate running backs.
After the 2024 season opener, Croskey-Merritt missed the remainder of the season due to "concerns" about his eligibility, according to Arizona head coach Brent Brennan.
At the East-West Shrine Bowl, Croskey-Merritt impressed scouts by rushing for 97 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries in a 25-0 victory for the East team, marking the first shutout in the all-star game since 1969. He was named the offensive MVP of the game.
Croskey-Merritt began his collegiate career at Alabama State in 2019, playing there for four seasons before transferring to New Mexico in 2023 and Arizona in 2024.
