Emanuel Wilson’s Role in Green Bay Is Shrinking-And He May Be Eyeing a Fresh Start
The Green Bay Packers have had no shortage of storylines this season. From a reshuffled offensive line to a defense that’s been revitalized under Jeff Hafley and powered by the relentless Micah Parsons, there’s been plenty to unpack. But quietly, and maybe a bit under the radar, the Packers’ backfield has been just as intriguing-especially when you zoom in on the rise (and recent fade) of Emanuel Wilson.
Wilson began the season with a modest role behind Josh Jacobs, the team’s lead back. But things changed in Week 12 when Jacobs went down with a knee contusion.
Suddenly, Wilson was thrust into the spotlight-and he delivered. He ran wild against the Minnesota Vikings, racking up 107 yards and two touchdowns in what was easily the best performance of his career.
That kind of breakout game typically earns a player more touches, more trust, and more opportunity. But for Wilson, it’s been a different story.
A Flash of Brilliance, Then Back to the Sidelines
Despite his Week 12 heroics, Wilson’s workload took a nosedive the very next game. On Thanksgiving against the Lions, he logged just four carries for 14 yards.
More telling than the stat line was how little he was actually on the field. According to Pro Football Focus, Wilson saw just 12 snaps-compared to 33 for Jacobs and 18 for third-stringer Chris Brooks, who carved out a role as a pass-blocking specialist.
That kind of usage sends a clear message: Wilson isn’t part of the Packers’ primary game plan, even when he’s coming off a two-week stretch where he totaled 147 rushing yards, three touchdowns, and added another 27 yards through the air.
It’s not a question of talent. Wilson has shown he can produce when given the chance.
His numbers this year-341 rushing yards, three touchdowns, and a 56.5% success rate-mirror the efficiency he displayed last season. He’s also flashed some versatility, with 28 catches for 158 yards and a touchdown over his three-year career.
But in the NFL, it’s not just about what you can do-it’s about when and how often you get the chance to do it.
A Crowded Room, and a Cloudy Future
The reality is the Packers’ backfield is only getting more crowded. Jacobs is under contract through next season with a $14.6 million price tag, and MarShawn Lloyd-drafted in the third round in 2024-is returning from injury and expected to be a bigger part of the offense moving forward. That doesn’t leave much room for Wilson to grow into a larger role.
At this point, it’s hard to see a clear path for him to become the featured back in Green Bay. Too many pieces would have to fall into place-injuries, unexpected roster moves, or a major shift in offensive philosophy. And for a player entering free agency next spring, waiting around for the stars to align might not be the best move.
Betting on Himself?
Wilson’s situation isn’t unique. Look no further than Kenneth Gainwell, who found himself buried on the Eagles’ depth chart behind Saquon Barkley and Will Shipley.
Gainwell took a one-year, $1.79 million deal with Pittsburgh, betting on himself to earn a bigger role-and it’s paying off. He’s on pace for a career year, with 356 rushing yards, three touchdowns, and another 259 yards and two scores through the air.
It’s not always about the money. Sometimes it’s about fit.
About opportunity. About proving you can be more than a rotational piece.
Wilson may be approaching that same crossroads. After his Thanksgiving snap count and with Lloyd’s return looming, the writing might be on the wall. If he wants a chance to be more than a backup, he might need to find a new home-somewhere that sees him not just as insurance, but as a potential lead back.
The Packers have some decisions to make in the coming months. So does Wilson.
But if his Week 12 performance showed us anything, it’s that he’s got the juice. Now it’s just a matter of finding the right team to let him squeeze it.