MarShawn Lloyd and the Green Bay Packers are entering the 2026 NFL season with renewed optimism surrounding the young running back. After a challenging start to his career, signs of progress have begun to emerge during the offseason.
The NFL star has drawn encouraging feedback from running backs coach Ben Sirmans, who pointed to noticeable physical improvements. Lloyd has focused on building strength, particularly in his lower body, which has translated into greater confidence as he prepares for a larger role.
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
Lloyd’s development has been shaped by a more disciplined approach to preparation. A structured routine before practices and a commitment to conditioning have helped him establish a foundation that the coaching staff believes can support consistent performance.
The added strength has the potential to impact multiple aspects of his game, from balance through contact to explosiveness in open space. Lloyd’s ability to translate those gains into on-field production will be a key factor in determining his role within the offense.
Green Bay Packers RB Coach Ben Sirmans Talks About MarShawn Lloyd
Green Bay Packers, MarShawn Lloyd
Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (32) catches a pitch during the first day of training camp on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Sirmans recently shared his thoughts about Lloyd ahead of the 2026 NFL season. This can be seen in an article posted on the team’s official website.
He talked about how much stronger he is just in his lower half of his body. Stronger than he’s ever been. So with all those things, it’s giving him confidence and he’s got a regimen that he does before we even go out to practice. We’re very optimistic, but we’ve all been optimistic before, so we just gotta wait and see what’s going to happen. But he feels confident, I feel confident that he’s finally gotten to that point where he can be in there and be ready to play a full season.
Confidence has also become a central theme in his progression, as comfort within the system often leads to improved execution. Lloyd appears to be reaching a point where both physical readiness and mental preparation are aligning at the right time.
The Packers remain cautiously optimistic as they look ahead to the season. If Lloyd can maintain his progress and stay available, he could emerge as a meaningful contributor and provide added depth to the team’s backfield in 2026.