Updated Packers RB depth chart after losing MarShawn Lloyd to injury
The Green Bay Packers will miss third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd for at least four games after placing him on injured reserve.
Lloyd has battled injuries over the past few months. Hip and hamstring issues kept him out for most of the summer, and he suffered an ankle injury in his NFL debut against the Indianapolis Colts. Having only just returned from a hamstring issue, it makes sense to take the cautious option and keep Lloyd out of action for four weeks.
In the meantime, the Packers have promoted Chris Brooks to the active roster. How does Lloyd's injury impact the depth chart?
Updated Packers depth chart after MarShawn Lloyd goes to injured reserve
Pos. | Player |
|---|---|
1 | Josh Jacobs |
2 | Emanuel Wilson |
3 | Chris Brooks |
Practice squad | Ellis Merriweather |
1. Josh Jacobs
The Packers need Josh Jacobs more than ever. He ran the ball 32 times in the win over the Colts, putting up 151 yards on the ground. Jacobs proved he can handle a significant workload when required, but it's not sustainable to have 30-plus carries per week.
Green Bay will have to manage his touches wherever possible, but if Jordan Love misses any more time, Jacobs will again have an important role to play as the lead back.
The former All-Pro has made an excellent start to his Packers career, turning 48 attempts into 235 yards in the opening two contests. He would've had his first touchdown had he not fumbled on the goal line.
2. Emanuel Wilson
Emanuel Wilson only had five carries for nine yards against the Colts, but he has shown he can handle backup duties in this offense. MarShawn Lloyd didn't play in Week 1, leading to Wilson rushing for 46 yards at 11.5 yards per attempt.
Wilson had an impressive preseason and has shown improvements from last year. With Lloyd out for a minimum of four weeks, Wilson becomes the clear No. 2 running back on the depth chart. His workload could increase in Week 3.
3. Chris Brooks
The Packers have promoted former Miami Dolphins running back Chris Brooks to the active roster, which is a smart move. Brooks starred in the preseason with 17 carries for 103 yards with Miami. Only the Dolphins' impressive running back depth prevented him from making their 53-man roster.
Brooks has shown big-play ability in his short NFL career. He had a 52-yard rush for the Dolphins last season and made a 59-yarder in the preseason this summer. Brooks is still learning Matt LaFleur's offense, but he is a capable No. 3 option while Lloyd recovers.
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