The Green Bay Packers have undergone significant changes in their running back situation over the past two seasons, transitioning from a reliable duo to a depth chart filled with uncertainty. Previously, Josh Jacobs and Emanuel Wilson formed a formidable one-two punch, providing a balanced offensive attack. Jacobs consistently delivered around 1,000 rushing yards and a dozen touchdowns annually, while Wilson contributed over 500 yards on approximately 100 carries.
However, as the 2026 season approaches, the Packers find themselves in a precarious position. Jacobs has been sidelined due to legal troubles, facing two misdemeanor charges in Brown County after an incident involving a woman and property damage. Meanwhile, Wilson departed in the offseason, signing with the Seattle Seahawks, the reigning Super Bowl champions, leaving the Packers to reevaluate their backfield options.
With Jacobs and Wilson out of the picture, the Packers are now relying on a group of untested running backs, which could lead to both challenges and opportunities as the season unfolds. Among the players vying for playing time are MarShawn Lloyd, Kaleb Johnson, and Chris Brooks, each bringing their own unique story to the team's depth chart.
MarShawn Lloyd, a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has struggled with injuries throughout his career. After appearing in just one game during his rookie season, where he recorded six carries for 15 yards, Lloyd has faced setbacks, including a severe ankle injury and a groin issue that hindered his participation in the following season. Now, at 25 years old and having successfully navigated training camp and preseason without injury, Lloyd finds himself at the top of the Packers' running back depth chart.
Kaleb Johnson, the newest addition to the Packers' backfield, was acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for a sixth-round pick. Johnson's arrival provides him with a fresh start, as he was previously buried on the Steelers' depth chart. Drafted in the third round after an impressive junior season at Iowa, where he rushed for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns, Johnson's potential has yet to be fully realized in the NFL. Last season, he managed only 69 yards on 28 carries while playing behind established backs Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. With the Packers, Johnson is eager to seize the opportunity to showcase his skills.
Chris Brooks, who has been with the Packers for three seasons, also figures into the running back mix. At 26 years old, Brooks has made the 53-man roster for a second consecutive year. Over the past two seasons, he has participated in 32 games, accumulating 289 rushing yards and one touchdown. While primarily serving as a backup, Brooks has also made significant contributions on special teams, recording a career-high 14 tackles last season, the most for a Packers running back in over two decades.
As the Packers prepare for the upcoming season, their running back depth chart now features Lloyd, Johnson, and Brooks, with Pierre Strong Jr. on the practice squad. The absence of Jacobs, who has been placed on the NFL commissioner’s exempt list following his legal issues, leaves the Packers in a state of flux. General manager Brian Gutekunst has indicated that Jacobs' future with the team remains uncertain, stating that they will allow the legal process to unfold before making any decisions. Coach Matt LaFleur expressed his trust in Jacobs, emphasizing the need to wait for further developments.
As the Packers navigate this transition, the performance of their new running back group will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of their offense in the 2026 season.
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