On December 29, 2024, Chris Rodriguez Jr. proved his mettle once again during the Commanders’ electrifying 30-24 overtime victory against the Falcons.
In a game filled with high stakes and relentless competition, Rodriguez showcased why he is quickly becoming one of the most reliable players on the Commanders’ roster.
Rodriguez contributed five crucial carries for 16 yards, including a pivotal 2-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter that momentarily placed the Commanders in the lead.
His versatility was on full display as he added a 12-yard reception, keeping the Falcons’ defense on their toes.
The night’s highlight came in overtime when Rodriguez executed a spectacular hurdle over a defender, advancing the Commanders into the red zone and setting up the game-winning touchdown.
His efforts not only secured a dramatic win but also guaranteed the Commanders their first playoff appearance since 2020.
A Glimpse at Chris Rodriguez Jr.’s Emerging Career
Chris Rodriguez Jr., drafted by the Washington Commanders in 2023, has had a journey marked by perseverance and hard work.
Despite being waived twice in 2024, he clawed his way back to the active roster, where his recent performances have silenced doubters.
Before his NFL career, Rodriguez shone as a standout running back at the University of Kentucky, where his bruising running style and ability to find the end zone made him a fan favorite.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. Is Motivated By His Late Mother, Stephanie Thornton
Behind every great athlete is a foundation of love, support, and sacrifice, and for Chris Rodriguez Jr., his parents have been that unwavering pillar.
Chris credits much of his success to the values instilled in him by his mother, Stephanie Thornton, and his father, Chris Rodriguez Sr.
When Chris Rodriguez Jr. heard his name called in the sixth round of the NFL Draft by the Commanders, he was surrounded by a crowd of his friends and family.
“Man, it’s a lot. I tell you that it’s a lot. It’s a lot of people in there. I got my dad, aunts, uncles, fiancé, her family, cousins. Man, you go down the list, it’s a lot of them. If I could pinpoint a few, I would, but it’s none that stand out more than the other.”
Via Sports Illustrated
Although the room was filled with loved ones, one absence was deeply felt—that of his mother, Stephanie Thornton.
She passed away in January 2022 after bravely battling lupus.
Despite her struggles, Stephanie was a source of immense strength and inspiration for Chris.
Her steadfast love and encouragement provided the groundwork for his athletic journey.
Through her perseverance in the face of challenges, she instilled in Chris the values of determination and compassion.
During the post-draft press conference, Rodriguez shared,
“I tell everybody, like my mom, she’s my biggest motivation in life. It’s hard I’m not sharing this moment with her, but I know she’s looking down. She’s proud of me and I continue to make her proud.”
Via Sports Illustrated
To honor her memory, Chris has advocated for lupus awareness, often wearing a purple facemask during games to symbolize his commitment to the cause.
Stephanie’s influence remains a driving force for Chris.
He often speaks about drawing motivation from her strength and dedicates his successes on and off the field to her memory.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Chris Rodriguez Jr. was born on September 26, 2000.
- He is nicknamed as “C-Rod”.
- He’s been married to Jordyn Rodriguez.
