Packers running back Josh Jacobs burst onto the scene in Green Bay, but in 2025, the former rushing champion could have a legitimate running-mate in the backfield.
Marshawn Lloyd, chosen by the Packers in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft before injuries wreaked havoc on his rookie season, could be a breakout candidate to keep an eye on this summer and into the regular season, this fall.
Could Marshawn Lloyd Be Packers’ Emerging Star?
Green Bay Packers Marshawn Lloyd
Gren Bay running back MarShawn Lloyd (32) runs through a drill during the 11th practice of training camp on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Lloyd was a virtual non-factor for Green Bay last season, rushing for just 15 yards while suffering through hip, hamstring, and ankle injuries that eventually ended his season before he had the chance to get onto the field and carve out a role in the offense.
Following a strong spring’s worth of OTA and minicamp practices, Lloyd looks like the kind of player who could complement Jacobs well, in the Packers’ backfield.
According to Mike Spofford of the Packers’ official website, Lloyd’s burst has been evident throughout the spring.
“Lloyd was in good spirits about his health,” Spofford writes. “When he spoke with the media during minicamp in mid-June. As far as running styles, I’ll have to see more to know for sure, but I get the impression that while he may not be quite as powerful overall as Jacobs (who is?), his initial burst separates him, literally and figuratively.”
MarShawn Lloyd, Green Bay Packers
Running back MarShawn Lloyd (32) is shown during organized team activities for Green Bay Tuesday, May 21, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Lloyd, 5-foot-9 and 220 pounds, seems to have the traits of a change-of-pace back who could create significant options for Matt LaFleur’s offense and spell Jacobs from time to time this upcoming season.
If Lloyd’s strong spring continues, Green Bay’s backfield might be a bit more versatile this fall.
Green Bay Packers Marshawn Lloyd
Aug 10, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (32) runs with the ball as Cleveland Browns linebacker Caleb Johnson (48) defends during the second half at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
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