The key to a successful preseason is escaping without injuries. While the Green Bay Packers can take plenty of positives away from their victory over the Cleveland Browns, rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd exited early due to a hamstring injury.
It's the last thing Lloyd needed, having already missed time at training camp due to a hip issue. He showed off his ability with an eight-yard rush on his only attempt, but the injury is a concern.
It could rule Lloyd out of the next preseason game, even if it's only a minor injury. The Packers won't want to rush their third-round pick back too soon.
While it was a frustrating end to Lloyd's game, the Packers have another talented running back on the roster who stepped up against the Browns.
Emanuel Wilson has a huge opportunity after MarShawn Lloyd injury
Second-year running back Emanuel Wilson put on a show against the Browns, turning 13 carries into 67 yards and a touchdown at a healthy 5.2 yards-per-carry average. Wilson had limited opportunities in his rookie season but is building momentum this summer.
Lloyd will have a significant role in the Packers' offense. That doesn't change because he's injured. However, his absence will provide Wilson with more opportunities, and it could open a roster spot if Lloyd is unable to go by Week 1.
Veteran AJ Dillon struggled against the Browns, adding further confusion to how the running back snaps may be distributed in the regular season.
Wilson deserves more opportunities after continuing to impress throughout the summer, and his snap counts will increase if Lloyd misses time.
Lloyd has already shown his big-play ability at training camp, but frustrating injuries have cost him valuable reps. Hopefully, the hamstring injury isn't serious and he can return to practice soon.
While he's out, Wilson has the chance to secure a roster spot.