Matt LaFleur hints at Packers plan to replace Aaron Jones after injury
The Green Bay Packers have a problem at running back.
Two of their top-three backs, Aaron Jones and Emanuel Wilson, left Sunday's win over the Los Angeles Chargers due to injury. Both players had to be carted off.
Head coach Matt LaFleur provided an encouraging update on Jones' injury, although he admitted the Packers will likely miss him in Week 12.
It's far from ideal with the quick turnaround of games. Green Bay takes on the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day, and AJ Dillon will likely be their only healthy running back on the 53-man roster.
The Packers may need to sign a running back this week.
Packers could sign a running back ahead of Week 12
After the game, LaFleur hinted at the possibility of Green Bay signing a running back this week.
"We'll have a solution for it, I promise you," said LaFleur. "I trust Gutey, and I know his staff is on it. We'll have a solution for that. It's a great challenge."
Dillon is the only healthy running back on the 53-man roster, but the Packers could promote undrafted rookie Ellis Merriweather from the practice squad. Even then, Green Bay won't want to enter Thursday's game with only two available running backs. Signing a free agent is likely a priority in the coming days.
The Packers may also need to find other ways to move the ball on the ground. Rookie wide receiver Jayden Reed can play a part in that. He led the Packers in rushing against the Chargers, turning three carries into 46 yards and a touchdown, including a 32-yard score on an end-around.
We can expect a heavy workload for Dillon and carries for Reed and possibly Christian Watson against the Lions, but Green Bay needs to add another running back to the mix.
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