Matt LaFleur, Green Bay Packers
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Head coach Matt Lafleur of the Green Bay Packers looks on during the first half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on November 16, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
The Green Bay Packers have had an interesting NFL offseason to this point in time.
Brian Gutekunst and the front office have watched quite a few key players from last year walk away in free agency. They have also decided to part ways with a couple as well.
Among the notable departures from the Packers are pass rusher Rashan Gary, quarterback Malik Willis, linebacker Quay Walker, center Elgton Jenkins, cornerback Nate Hobbs, wide receiver Romeo Doubs, and offensive tackle Rasheed Walker.
Green Bay has made far fewer additions. In free agency, the Packers signed return man Skyy Moore, cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. They have also acquired linebacker Zaire Franklin in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts.
With that being said, the team has been connected to having interest in a 26-touchdown playmaker to add offensive firepower.
Green Bay Packers Showing Interest in Potential Backup Running Back
According to a report from NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Green Bay will host a top-30 visit with Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr.
“Sources: Arkansas RB Mike Washington Jr. has completed a 30-visit with the Falcons,” Schultz wrote on X.
“I’m told he has upcoming visits in the next two weeks with the Bucs, Packers and Seahawks. The 6-1, 223-pounder ran a blazing 4.33 40 at the Combine and is projected as a Day 2 pick.”
After the Packers chose to non-tender Emanuel Wilson, he ended up signing as a free agent with the Seattle Seahawks. Green Bay did re-sign Chris Brooks, but a better backup with more playmaking ability could be a wise investment for Gutekunst and company.
What Would Mike Washington Jr. Bring to the Packers’ Offense?
During the 2025 season with the Razorbacks, Washington carried the football 167 times for 1,070 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging an impressive 6.4 yards per carry. He also caught 28 passes for 226 yards and a score.
Finding a legitimate backup behind Josh Jacobs should be a priority. Last season, Jacobs missed some time due to injury and the Packers need to make sure he stays fresh and healthy this season.
Washington could be a perfect target to be a cheap and reliable backup. He has the speed to be a major playmaker at the NFL level. Using a mid-round pick on him wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Throughout his entire college football career spread between Buffalo, New Mexico State, and Arkansas, Washington racked up 2,914 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns on 587 carries. He also caught 73 passes for 470 yards and three more scores.
At the very least, Green Bay has some level of interest in Washington. His name would be one worth keeping a close eye on for Packers fans.