This is the next in a series of articles providing an in-depth analysis of each position group on the Green Bay Packers for 2024. Today we will analyze the running backs. The grades will be for each unit as a whole, but we will give an analysis of each player, their strengths and weaknesses and where they stand heading into the offseason. Here are the final grades for the Packers running backs in 2024. The marks are based on a combination of expectations and performance.

You can see our final grades for the quarterbacks here and for the defensive tackles here.

The Packers run offense finished 5th in the NFL in rushing yards per game with 146.8 and 6th in the league in average yards gained per attempt with 4.7.

Final Grades for the 2024 Packers Starting Running Backs

The Packers signed Josh Jacobs as a free agent and then let go 2023 rushing leader, Aaron Jones. Jones signed with the Vikings.

Jacobs gave the Packers more size and durability at the running back position. He played all 17 games and gained 1,329 yards on 301 carries. The former Raiders star also ran for 15 touchdowns including one or more in each of the last eight regular season games, setting a new franchise record.

Jacobs excelled at running between the tackles and making people miss. By midseason, he became the catalyst that made the Packers offense go.

In addition to his running prowess, Jacobs was an effective checkdown receiver. He caught 36 passes for 342 yards and one score.

Jacobs heads into 2025 as the team’s primary offensive weapon.

The Primary Backup

During the offseason, many were wondering if there was still a place for Emanuel Wilson in the Green Bay backfield. By the end of the season, Wilson proved his worth and became a steady contributor as the team’s primary backup runner.

Wilson ran 103 times for 502 yards and scored four rushing touchdowns. That’s a healthy 4.9 yards per carry. He also caught 11 passes for 48 yards and one score.

Wilson has elusiveness and burst. He has been a steady blocker in pass protection and an effective runner when given the chance.

Final Grades for the 2024 Packers Running Backs: The Other Running Backs

The Packers signed Chris Brooks early in the season when injuries hit the running back room. Brooks served as the team’s third running back. He averaged 5.1 yards per carry, gaining 183 yards on 36 attempts and scoring one touchdown. Brooks also caught 11 passes for 69 yards.

The most important part of Brooks’ game was his ability to pass protect and pick up blitzes. That made him a reliable contributor in obvious passing situations.

Rookie third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd saw his rookie season derailed by injuries. He missed time in training camp, then returned for week two where he saw his only action of the season.

Lloyd ran six times for 15 yards and caught one pass for three yards. Then injuries cost him the rest of the season. The Packers were high on Lloyd’s speed and cutback ability. Hopefully, he gets back on the field next season and gets a chance to show what he can do.

Depth at Running Back

Ellis Merriweather spent the season on the practice squad but did not see any game action. The team did not sign him to a contract for 2025, so he will likely not be back in training camp next season.

A.J. Dillon surprised everybody by re-signing with the Packers last offseason. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending neck injury in training camp. Dillon will not likely return to Green Bay next season and will test the free agent waters.

Final Grades for the Packers 2024 Running Backs

The Packers running game was the best part of the offense this season. Jacobs, Wilson, and Brooks all exceeded expectations and performed well.

The Packers should get a healthy Lloyd back in 2025 and that will give them a talented addition with a different skill set.

This is a deep and talented group, and they got the job done.

FINAL GRADE: A

Follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers

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