Packers Keep Unsung Hero Chris Brooks in Free Agency

The running back's pass-blocking prowess is vital for protecting QB Jordan Love

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:18pm

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The Green Bay Packers have been relatively quiet in free agency, but one of their most important moves was re-signing running back Chris Brooks. While Brooks hasn't had many opportunities as a ball-carrier, his elite pass-blocking skills are crucial for protecting quarterback Jordan Love, who struggles when pressured. Brooks' ability to pick up blitzes and keep Love upright has earned him praise from coaches and teammates, making him a vital component of the Packers' offense despite his limited stats.

Why it matters

The Packers' offense is built around protecting Jordan Love and giving him a clean pocket to operate. With the team facing several blitz-heavy opponents on the schedule, having a reliable pass-blocking running back like Chris Brooks is essential to Love's success and the team's chances of returning to the playoffs.

The details

The Packers chose to re-sign Brooks over fellow restricted free agent running back Emanuel Wilson, citing Brooks' superior pass-blocking skills. Brooks has shown his value in key moments, such as a crucial blitz pickup that allowed Love to hit a game-changing downfield pass against the Giants last season. Coaches praise Brooks' preparation and attention to detail in pass protection, which has made him a trusted option for keeping Love upright.

  • In 2024, Brooks was on the field for the Packers' game-winning drive against the Texans and stuffed three consecutive blitzes.
  • In 2025, Brooks made a dominating and determined blitz pickup that gave Love time to throw a 33-yard pass to set up the decisive touchdown against the Giants.

The players

Chris Brooks

A running back for the Green Bay Packers who is known for his elite pass-blocking abilities, which are crucial for protecting quarterback Jordan Love.

Jordan Love

The starting quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, who struggles when pressured but thrives when given a clean pocket to operate.

Ben Sirmans

The running backs coach for the Green Bay Packers, who praises Brooks' pass-protection skills and uses his tape as a teaching tool for other players.

Josh Jacobs

The Packers' starting running back, who has expressed appreciation for Brooks' contributions to the team, both on offense and special teams.

Emanuel Wilson

A restricted free agent running back who the Packers chose not to re-sign, opting instead to keep the more pass-blocking-oriented Chris Brooks.

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What they’re saying

“It was awesome. I think as a running back, being able to step up and take on a linebacker coming at you full speed is big time, but it's something that practice throughout training camp when these guys are doing one-on-one pass pro, it's something ... he prides his game on is to be able to come into those situations.”

— Jordan Love, Quarterback

“Chris is a guy that's whatever it takes. He's earned his way in here and done some great things for us, but that was a really big-time rep by him and, obviously, led to a big-time play down the field. That's just the mindset he has – whatever it takes – that he'll go out there and do it.”

— Jordan Love, Quarterback

“Chris is a dawg. I don't think that he gets enough appreciation and credit for who he is to this team, honestly, whether it's special teams or whether it's something in our room. Hopefully, his role keeps expanding a little bit.”

— Josh Jacobs, Running Back

What’s next

The Packers will likely add another running back before training camp, either through free agency or the draft, to provide depth behind Jacobs and Brooks.

The takeaway

The Packers' decision to re-sign Chris Brooks highlights the importance of having a reliable pass-blocking running back to protect their young quarterback Jordan Love. Brooks' elite skills in this area make him a vital component of the Packers' offense, even if his stats as a ball-carrier are limited. This move underscores the Packers' commitment to building an offense that can maximize Love's potential by keeping him upright and out of harm's way.