Packers Free Agency: Is adding a running back beyond the realms of possibility?

There may be some clarity at the running back position for the Green Bay Packers, but adding another one on the roster is something they should consider.

In 2016, Packers starting running back Eddie Lacy only played in five games due to injuries. Veteran James Starks also struggled to stay healthy and when he was on the field, he failed to produce.

As a result, wide receiver Ty Montgomery stepped up and took over the duties in the backfield.

Montgomery averaged 5.9 yards a carry and finished the season with 457 yards and three touchdowns.

His success, combined with Lacy’s inconsistency and health issues played a role in management’s decision not to re-sign Lacy at the end of the year. The Packers also opted to cut Starks.

Despite Montomgery’s success, Green Bay used the NFL Draft to bolster the unit. They used their fourth- (Jamaal Williams), fifth- (Aaron Jones) and seventh-round (Devante Mays) picks to help add depth.

Montgomery’s 2017 campaign did not feature as much success because of injury, but luckily Green Bay received more than enough production from Williams and Jones.

Jones’ first true opportunity came in Week 4 against the Chicago Bears after Montgomery was knocked out of the game.

In 12 games, Jones rushed for 448 yards and four touchdowns.  He showcased his quickness and ability to beat defenders with his speed.

Later in the season, Williams got his chance to start because Montgomery and Jones were both injured. In 16 games, Williams rushed for 556 yards and four scores. He also caught 25 passes for 262 yards and two touchdowns.

Williams, unlike Jones, used his strength and power to get through defenders.

When healthy, the two backs could form a potent one-two punch, with Jones getting opposing defenses tired with his speed and Williams finishing them off with his physicality.

Jones and Williams showed they are natural backs, but weren’t as effective in the pass-game.

So why would the Packers even think about adding a running back?

There is a ton of uncertainty surrounding the future of wideouts Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport explained how their is a distinct possibility that the Packers could move on from both.

If that’s the case, or even if the Packers lose one of the two, it wouldn’t be out of the realm for them to move Montgomery back to wide receiver.

With that being said, the Packers would go into the 2018 season with three running backs who each only have a year of experience.

Here are three low-risk, high-reward running backs the Packers should consider.