Commanders' J.D. McKissic explains decision to stay with team

J.D. McKissic nixed a deal with the Bills to return to the Commanders. Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Commanders RB J.D. McKissic on decision to stay with team: 'I had unfinished business'

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 3/24/22

Last week, running back J.D. McKissic joined a growing list of NFL players to back out of a previously reported deal and agree on a new contract with a different team. In McKissic's case, he reversed course and instead of signing with the Buffalo Bills, he elected to stay with the Washington Commanders on a two-year, $7 million contract.

On Thursday morning, he met with members of the media to discuss the decision.

McKissic said he was "a bit" surprised Washington hadn't made an offer before he agreed to Buffalo's deal. "But it is what it is. It's a business."https://t.co/y7wHq7Fijb
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) March 24, 2022

J.D. McKissic: "Much respect to the [Bills]. You can't ask for a better organization to be chosen by. But I had unfinished business in Washington. The way we left off, I felt like we were inclining. With my injury, I had things I wanted to prove in Washington. Washington is home"
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) March 24, 2022

McKissic was limited to 11 games in 2021, recording 91 touches (48 carries, 43 receptions) for 609 yards from scrimmage and four total touchdowns. The 28-year-old's best season came in 2020, when he set career-highs in rushing attempts (85), rushing yards (365), targets (110), receptions (80) and receiving yards (589).

Per Ben Standig of The Athletic, McKissic is on track to return from his neck injury in time for the 2022 campaign.

McKissic (neck) says he should be cleared to participate once practices begin. He missed the final 6 games.

"It was scary, but I'm a fearless young man. I'm ready to get back out there and help this team win games."
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) March 24, 2022

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