Packers Seek Healthier Running Back Depth Ahead of Draft

Injuries have plagued backups, putting pressure on top RB Josh Jacobs to stay on the field.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:30pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Packers running play, with sharp, overlapping planes of green, gold, and navy blue representing the team's colors and the fragmented, multi-perspective nature of the action.The Packers' search for backfield depth ahead of the draft aims to provide more support and options behind star running back Josh Jacobs.Green Bay Today

The Green Bay Packers are looking to bolster their running back depth in the upcoming NFL Draft after dealing with injury issues among their backups the past two seasons. Starting RB Josh Jacobs is coming off a 2025 campaign where he played through various ailments, while 2024 third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd has been limited to just one regular season game due to a string of hamstring, ankle and groin injuries. Veteran Chris Brooks re-signed as a restricted free agent to provide a reliable third-down option, but the Packers may need to target an additional running back, potentially on Day 2 of the draft, to complement Jacobs.

Why it matters

The Packers' running game is a key part of their offensive attack, so ensuring they have a healthy and productive backfield is crucial. With Jacobs entering his age-29 season, the team will want to have a solid plan in place for the future at the position as well.

The details

Josh Jacobs is back as the Packers' lead back after a 2025 season where he played through various injuries, missing just two games but seeing his production dip from his Pro Bowl 2024 campaign. Veteran Chris Brooks re-signed as a restricted free agent to provide a reliable third-down option, but 2024 third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd has been limited to just one regular season game over his first two years due to a string of hamstring, ankle and groin injuries. The Packers may need to target an additional running back, potentially on Day 2 of the draft, to complement Jacobs and provide more depth.

  • Jacobs will turn 29 shortly after the 2026 season ends.

The players

Josh Jacobs

The Packers' starting running back, Jacobs is coming off a 2025 season where he played through various injuries but still rushed for 13 touchdowns.

Chris Brooks

A veteran running back who re-signed with the Packers as a restricted free agent, Brooks provides a reliable third-down option.

MarShawn Lloyd

A 2024 third-round pick by the Packers, Lloyd has been limited to just one regular season game over his first two years due to a string of injuries.

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What they’re saying

“Pre-draft picture" is a position-by-position look at the Packers' roster heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.”

— Mike Spofford

What’s next

The Packers will look to address their running back depth in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, potentially targeting an additional running back as early as Day 2 to complement Josh Jacobs and provide more insurance behind the injury-prone MarShawn Lloyd.

The takeaway

The Packers' running game is a crucial part of their offensive attack, so ensuring they have a healthy and productive backfield is a top priority heading into the draft. With Jacobs entering his age-29 season and Lloyd's injury history, the team will need to bolster their depth at the position to support their star running back.