Green Bay Packers: Early 53-man roster predictions

Running backs (4)

(3) Aaron Jones

(4) Jamaal Williams

(5) Ty Montgomery

(6) Aaron Ripkowski

After an abysmal showing during the 2017 regular season, on the few opportunities given to Devante Mays, I don’t see Mays making the 53-man roster. First off, depth is needed at other positions more than running back, especially with three solid running backs on the roster, who will all compete for playing time. I see Mays as a practice squad player next season.

Everyone has their own opinions as to who they think should see the bulk of the carries in the backfield this season, and I believe that guy should be Aaron Jones. Jones averaged an impressive 5.5 yards/carry during the 2017 season. He is the most explosive running back of the bunch and shows sensational vision. He will need to take care of himself and make sure he is available in order to maximize his opportunities.

Ty Montgomery played very well last season before sustaining injuries, but when Montgomery went down with injuries, it opened the door for Jamaal Williams and Aaron Jones to show how talented they are. I believe he will be in a much different role this season, as a change-of-pace back and as a versatile backfield piece that can motion into the slot and create mismatches with his receiving skills.

One major upside to Williams is how effective he is in pass protection, which is something McCarthy has always loved in his running backs. Below is one instance of how great Williams is in pass protection. Williams is more of a downhill runner that runs with more power than elusiveness, he would be considered the “thunder” to the Packers’ “thunder and lightning” running back 1-2 punch of Williams and Jones.

https://twitter.com/Packers NewsChat/status/998341893514780672