Packers 2021 pre-draft preview: What about running back?

The Green Bay Packers used a second-round pick at running back a year ago, bringing in AJ Dillon. Should they look to add to the position again in the 2021 NFL Draft?

Today, we begin a new pre-draft series looking at different position groups on the roster with the draft only weeks away. Where are the Packers’ biggest strengths and weaknesses after free agency?

We begin with running back.

Free agency recap

The Packers made one of the biggest moves of free agency before it even officially got going, signing star running back Aaron Jones to a new four-year deal. It looked unlikely as it was left until just hours before the new league year to get it done.

Green Bay did lose backup running back Jamaal Williams, who signed a deal with the division-rival Detroit Lions.

Need in the draft?

No, but the Packers could look to add depth late on.

The Packers prepared for the possibility of losing either Jones or Williams this offseason when they selected AJ Dillon in the second round last year. Now with Jones and Dillon the top two backs on the roster, the Packers are well set and don’t need to invest another early-round pick at the position.

Draft outlook

When the 2021 season is over, we could be talking about Jones and Dillon as being one of the best running back pairings in the league. Their contrasting styles should go well together.

Where the Packers could look to strengthen is the depth in the backfield. What if Jones or Dillon miss time? Who would be promoted to the number two role? It worked well last season having an excellent trio of running backs. Matt LaFleur loves depth at the position.

Currently, the other running backs on the roster are Dexter Williams, Patrick Taylor, and Mike Weber.

Using a Day 3 pick at running back would make sense, but there’s no need to go any earlier than that.