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Running back J.D. McKissic changed his mind about playing for the Buffalo Bills and will return to the Washington Commanders.
Washington initially didn’t offer McKissic a deal — until he agreed to one with Buffalo on Tuesday during the NFL’s free-agent negotiating period, agents Doug Hendrickson and CJ LaBoy told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Once McKissic heard Washington was willing to match the offer, he didn’t want to leave, the agents said.
McKissic will return to Washington on a two-year deal worth up to $7 million, similar to Buffalo’s offer, sources told ESPN.
He’s a pivotal player in Washington’s offense as a third-down back. He is coming off a neck injury that landed him on injured reserve for the last three games of the season. He also suffered a concussion last season.
In two seasons with Washington, McKissic has caught 123 passes and averaged 8.0 yards per reception. He’s considered a strong blocker in protection and also a versatile pass catcher. McKissic was a receiver in college and he can run routes other running backs struggle with, such as out-and-ups. It added versatility to Washington’s offense.
He’s also a popular player in the locker room, owing to his high energy and personality. Washington still has Antonio Gibson as its primary back and also has Jaret Patterson, but could add another back in the draft.