Emanuel Wilson’s Unexpected Rise Sets Stage for Intriguing Matchup vs. Former Team
When the Green Bay Packers take on the Denver Broncos this week, all eyes will be on Josh Jacobs - if he’s healthy enough to go. But don’t be surprised if Emanuel Wilson gets a bigger slice of the workload, and not just because of Jacobs’ status. This one’s personal.
Wilson’s NFL journey started in Denver, but it was over almost before it began. The Broncos brought him in as an undrafted rookie out of Fort Valley State in 2023, gave him a look in minicamp, and cut him just three days later. Now, he’s got a real chance to show the Broncos what they passed up - and he’s doing it as a key piece in a Packers offense that’s quietly finding its rhythm.
From Cut to Contributor
Since landing in Green Bay, Wilson has carved out a legitimate role behind Jacobs. He’s not just a depth piece - he’s proven he can take over when needed.
Just a couple of weeks ago, with Jacobs sidelined, Wilson stepped up and ran for over 100 yards in a blowout win over the Vikings. That performance wasn’t a fluke.
It was a glimpse into what the Packers believe he can do when given the opportunity.
With nearly 1,100 yards from scrimmage and seven total touchdowns in his young career, Wilson has become more than just a feel-good story. He’s a reliable, dynamic RB2 who can carry the load when called upon - and that call might come again this weekend.
Jacobs’ Dominance vs. Denver - and What That Means for Wilson
Jacobs has absolutely owned the Broncos throughout his career. In eight games against them as a Raider, he racked up 950 yards from scrimmage and nine touchdowns, while helping his team go 8-0 in those matchups. Denver knows exactly how dangerous he can be - and they’d probably be fine not seeing him on the field at all.
But even if Jacobs is limited or unavailable, that doesn’t mean the Broncos are catching a break. Wilson brings a different style, but the production speaks for itself.
He runs with purpose, he’s decisive, and he’s not afraid of the moment. Against a Denver defense that’s had its share of issues stopping the run, Wilson could be a real problem.
A Missed Opportunity in Denver?
Broncos head coach Sean Payton has been vocal in the past about the importance of evaluating young talent thoroughly - especially the kind you don’t want to see thriving elsewhere. Back in May, he emphasized how critical it is not to let a promising player walk out the door only to watch him succeed in another uniform.
“I've said this to you guys before: we never want someone that was here and hear about him later there [with another team]. That's important that we do a close job looking closely at them,” Payton said.
Wilson is the kind of player that quote was made for. Denver’s backfield has been in flux the past couple of years.
Javonte Williams left for Dallas in free agency. JK Dobbins was lost to injury.
The depth just hasn’t been there - and it’s hard not to wonder what might’ve been if Wilson had stuck around.
A Little Extra Motivation
Wilson hasn’t said much publicly about his brief time in Denver, but you can bet he hasn’t forgotten it. Players don’t usually need extra motivation - especially in a league where every snap counts - but when you get the chance to face the team that let you go after just three days, that’s the kind of thing that sticks with you.
This matchup might not be headlining the week’s slate, but there’s a sneaky-good storyline brewing here. Emanuel Wilson is no longer just a name on the depth chart. He’s a legitimate contributor with something to prove - and the Broncos are about to get an up-close look at what they missed.