Latest roster update effectively confirms Packers decision on AJ Dillon
The Green Bay Packers have a few things to sort out at running back before the roster cuts deadline.
Preseason star Emanuel Wilson has earned serious consideration to make the 53-man roster, but would the Packers keep four running backs? Has Wilson done enough to move ahead of Dillon on the depth chart?
Dillon's future has remained uncertain all summer after the Packers signed Josh Jacobs and drafted MarShawn Lloyd in the third round.
However, the latest roster update rumor likely confirms Dillon isn't going anywhere.
Packers rookie MarShawn Lloyd will reportedly begin season on injured reserve
According to Easton Butler, the Packers are expected to place Lloyd on injured reserve.
UPDATE (8/27): The Packers have placed AJ Dillon on season-ending injured reserve. MarShawn Lloyd has made the initial 53-man roster.
The Packers could take advantage of a new NFL rule allowing teams to designate two players placed on injured reserve before roster cutdowns to return. Previously, a player placed on injured reserve in the preseason was done for the year.
Lloyd is dealing with a hamstring injury and also missed time with a hip issue. It makes sense for the Packers to give him additional time to get fully healthy. The rookie would have to miss at least four regular-season games before being eligible to return.
Placing Lloyd on injured reserve would create a roster spot for Dillon.
His status wasn't guaranteed if the Packers had a fully healthy running back room. But if Lloyd is out for at least four weeks, Dillon effectively becomes a roster lock.
Dillon is also dealing with an injury, which could further complicate things. He missed the final two preseason games due to a stinger. But if he's available for Week 1, his chances of making the 53-man roster have increased dramatically.
With Lloyd likely going to IR, the Packers could enter the regular season with a top three of Jacobs, Dillon, and Wilson at running back.
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