'He’s been here all offseason': Packers 2024 draft pick determined to make it on the field in 2025

Last offseason, the Green Bay Packers overhauled their running back room. Obviously, the biggest addition/change came in the signing of Josh Jacobs, who proved to be one of the best running backs in the NFL in his first season with the Packers. He made the Pro Bowl in 2024, rushing 301 times for 1,329 yards and 15 touchdowns.

But the addition of Jacobs also meant the end of the line for fan-favorite Aaron Jones in Green Bay. And while the switch was understandable given the fact that Jacobs is younger and, well, better than Jones, it was tough for fans to see the third all-time leading rusher in franchise history sign with the Minnesota Vikings.

Unfortunately, too, 2020 second round pick AJ Dillon suffered a neck injury during training camp and lost for the year. His absence meant that the backup running back job was up for grabs between Emanuel Wilson and 2024 third-round pick Marshawn Lloyd.

Green Bay Packers running back Marshawn Lloyd was hurt virtually his whole rookie season

While Wilson performed well as the Packers’ third running back in 2023, he was far from guaranteed a roster spot in 2024. The addition of Lloyd in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft proved that.

Lloyd, however, was never able to stay on the practice field long enough to even compete for a backup role, though. The USC product battled injuries throughout training camp. When he finally did get healthy enough to suit up for a game, Green Bay’s Week 2 matchup, he suffered an ankle injury that landed him on the injury report for weeks.

Despite this setback, Lloyd battled back and was poised to rejoin the team late in the year. Then, however, he was rushed in for an emergency appendectomy, which ended his season.

He finished his rookie year with six carries for 15 yards.

Lloyd has been working hard all offseason

According to a recent report by Jason Wilde of Channel 3000, Packers coaches are very excited about what Lloyd is going to bring to the table this year.

“I’m excited about OTAs and training camp, just to see him get out there run around and see what he can do,” offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich said. “He’s been here all offseason working hard.

“He’s got the speed; he’s got the size. So, I’m excited to see him get out there and make some plays.”

Fortunately for Green Bay, Wilson proved to be a very capable backup last season. Jacobs, of course, is one of the best running backs in the league. Add in a healthy Lloyd, and the Packers could have one of the best ground games in the NFL.