The Packers have plenty of young talent scattered across the roster, but one spot stands out as a real concern heading into 2026: running back depth.
Josh Jacobs is the centerpiece there. When he’s right, he looks like the kind of back who can chase a rushing title, and in Matt LaFleur’s offense he has become a major engine. That’s why Green Bay needs a big season from him.
The problem is what comes after him.
Behind Jacobs, the Packers are thin at running back, and NFL Media’s Kevin Patra pointed to that as a possible weak point for Green Bay’s offense. He also noted that Jacobs’ arrest on domestic violence allegations earlier this spring adds another layer of uncertainty.
“If any action is taken against Jacobs,” Patra writes, of Green Bay’s offense. “It could have a significant impact on the on-field product in Green Bay.
Jacobs is the workhorse and engine of the ground attack. If he’s unavailable or gets injured during the season, Matt LaFleur’s offense could be in some trouble.
Next up are former undrafted free agent Chris Brooks - a third-down back - and MarShawn Lloyd, who has been unable to stay healthy. The Packers believe Lloyd finally has turned a corner, but until we see it in action, that’s a projection we can’t assume.
We need to see the third-year back produce during camp and into the preseason, while staying healthy in the process.”
That concern gets sharper when you look at Jacobs’ production last season. He ran for 929 yards and scored 13 rushing touchdowns, and Green Bay would have a tough time finding anything close to that from the backs behind him if he were unavailable.
Jordan Love and the passing game may be the headline act in LaFleur’s offense, but Jacobs’ role could end up mattering most when it comes to the Packers’ overall outlook.
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