The Green Bay Packers have experienced a significant shift in their running back depth chart following the trade for Kaleb Johnson from the Pittsburgh Steelers. This move comes as the team looks to rebuild its backfield after losing key players to legal issues and free agency.
In the past two seasons, the Packers had a reliable duo in Josh Jacobs and Emanuel Wilson, who provided a balanced offensive attack. Jacobs was a workhorse, consistently racking up around 1,000 yards and scoring over a dozen touchdowns each season. Wilson complemented him well, contributing approximately 500 yards with over 100 carries. However, as the 2026 season approaches, the Packers find themselves in a precarious situation with their running backs.
Jacobs has been sidelined due to legal troubles, having been charged with two misdemeanors in Brown County related to an incident involving a woman. His future with the team remains uncertain as he has been placed on the NFL commissioner’s exempt list, meaning he cannot practice or play until the situation is resolved. Meanwhile, Wilson has departed for the Seattle Seahawks, the reigning Super Bowl champions, leaving the Packers with a largely untested group of running backs.
The Packers are now looking to unproven players to fill the void. MarShawn Lloyd, who was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, is expected to take on a more significant role. However, his career thus far has been marred by injuries, limiting him to just one game in his first two seasons. At 25 years old, Lloyd is now healthy and poised to lead the Packers' backfield, but his ability to stay on the field remains a pressing concern.
Joining Lloyd is Kaleb Johnson, the newest addition to the Packers' roster. Acquired on August 30 in exchange for a sixth-round pick, Johnson is looking for a fresh start after a lackluster rookie season with the Steelers. Despite being a third-round pick following a standout junior year at Iowa, where he amassed 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns, Johnson struggled to find playing time behind established backs. In 10 games last season, he managed only 69 yards on 28 carries. The Packers hope that Johnson can adapt quickly to their system and provide a spark to the running game.
Chris Brooks rounds out the Packers' running back depth chart. Now in his third season with Green Bay, Brooks has primarily contributed on special teams, although he has seen some action on offense, recording 289 yards and one touchdown over the past two years. His experience and versatility may prove valuable as the Packers navigate this transitional phase.
The Packers also have Pierre Strong Jr. on their practice squad, adding another layer of depth as they assess their options. With Jacobs' future uncertain, the team is relying heavily on Lloyd, Johnson, and Brooks to step up and fill the gaps in their running game.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the Packers will need to address their running back situation carefully. The performance of these players will be crucial not only for the team's offensive strategy but also for their overall success in a competitive NFC North division. The upcoming games will reveal whether this new depth chart can rise to the challenge in the absence of Jacobs and Wilson.
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