The Green Bay Packers are set to open training camp later this month. This is the next in a series of articles previewing the Packers position by position, analyzing the talent on the roster and discussing key questions that are facing the team as they begin preparation for the 2026 season. Today we will examine the running backs. We will examine another position each day until the start of training camp. To read our quarterbacks analysis, click here and for defensive tackles, click here. These are three big questions facing the Green Bay Packers at running back entering training camp in 2026:
The Projected Candidates: Starter: Josh Jacobs; Backups: MarShawn Lloyd, Chris Brooks; Fighting for roster spots: Pierre Strong, Jaden Nixon, Damien Martinez
Three Big Questions Facing the Packers at Running Back, Number One: Will Josh Jacobs Be Available?
The biggest question surrounding the Packers running backs will be the availability of starter Josh Jacobs. Over the offseason, Jacobs was arrested on an alleged domestic violence incident. While no charges have been filed as of now, the investigation is ongoing. Even if no criminal charges are filed, the NFL can still suspend Jacobs based on their own investigation. So, Jacobs’ availability can change at any time.
Even if he’s healthy and available to play, the Packers still have concerns about Jacobs. He is 28 years old and coming off a season that saw him dealing with nagging injuries and lower production. He gained 929 yards but that was exactly 400 yards fewer than he did in 2024. So is Jacobs slowing down or did he just endure a frustrating season.
Jacobs remains a strong weapon in the red zone and has scored 30 total touchdowns in his first two seasons with the team. He gives the Packers a strong, between-the-tackles runner who can handle the ball 25-30 times a game. The Packers will need a strong season from Jacobs to make the running game go this season. His absence could have a huge impact on the offense.
Number Two: Can MarShawn Lloyd Stay on the Field?
The Packers were excited about MarShawn Lloyd when they drafted him in the third round back in 2024. The former USC star could be an ideal change-of-pace back for Jacobs because of his speed and one-cut ability.
The obvious problem with Lloyd has been his inability to stay on the field. In two seasons with the Packers, he has played exactly one regular season game, running six times for 15 yards and catching one pass. The Packers are hoping he can stay healthy this season and contribute as the number two back, but he still has to prove he can do it.
If he can’t, the Packers lack a clear-cut and proven RB2 on the current roster. Furthermore, if Jacobs misses time, Lloyd is not built to be a workhorse back so the team would have to resort to running back by committee.
Three Big Questions Facing the Packers at Running Back, Number Three: Could Chris Brooks Be RB2?
The Packers parted ways with last year’s RB2, Emanuel Wilson but re-signed RB3, Chris Brooks. Brooks is the Packers best blocking running back. He does a good job of picking up blitzes and stunts and protecting Jordan Love.
As a runner or a receiver, he gives the team steady but not dynamic performances. He gives the team a good third-down back, but it’s not clear he could be the number two back on the depth chart. Brooks gained 106 yards on 27 carries last season and caught 13 passes for 91 more.
The other players on the roster are unproven at the NFL level, but one of them will need to step up and earn a roster spot if Jacobs or Lloyd are unavailable. The Packers will keep at least one, possibly two running backs on the practice squad.
The Packers have a lot of questions at running back and they will need answers.
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