MarShawn Lloyd Nears Return, and the Packers Could Use His Spark
It’s been a rough start to MarShawn Lloyd’s NFL career. Since entering the league last year, the explosive young running back has seen the field just once for the Green Bay Packers, with injuries keeping him on the sidelines far more than anyone had hoped. But that may be about to change - and not a moment too soon for a Packers offense that could use a jolt.
Green Bay officially opened the 21-day return window for Lloyd, along with edge rusher Brenton Cox and rookie pass rusher Collin Oliver. All three could provide a late-season boost, but it’s Lloyd’s potential return that stands out, especially considering how head coach Matt LaFleur has spoken about the dimension he brings to the offense.
A Different Gear in the Backfield
The Packers already have a solid 1-2 combo in Josh Jacobs and Emanuel Wilson. Both backs are bruisers - downhill runners who thrive on contact and grind out tough yards.
But Lloyd? He brings a different kind of threat.
He’s got the kind of speed that can turn a routine play into a highlight reel moment.
“You can’t deny the explosiveness this guy has,” LaFleur said last December. “His ability to run routes, catch balls out of the backfield - that’s a little different from the rest of the guys in the group.”
That versatility was on full display during training camp, where Lloyd consistently turned heads. One moment that stood out: a 33-yard sideline grab in a preseason game against the Colts that had teammates buzzing. Unfortunately, that play also marked the beginning of another setback - a hamstring injury that’s kept him out ever since.
Rehab, Recovery, and a Return in Sight
Earlier this season, the Packers sent Lloyd to California to focus on getting his body right. Since then, the updates have been promising. By mid-November, he was ramping up his rehab and working out on the sidelines during practice - a clear sign he was trending in the right direction.
Now, with his return window open, the Packers have three weeks to decide whether to activate him or shut him down for the season. Given the timing and his progress, there’s real optimism that we could see him back on the field before the year is out.
Whether that happens this week against the Bears or later this month in the rematch at Soldier Field remains to be seen. But the door is open, and that’s a big deal for a Green Bay team still fighting for position in the NFC playoff race.
What Lloyd Brings to the Table
Lloyd likely won’t jump ahead of Jacobs or Wilson on the depth chart right away. He’ll probably slot in as the RB3 initially, with LaFleur managing his workload carefully. But even in a limited role, Lloyd has the tools to make an impact.
His burst and open-field speed give the Packers something they’ve been missing since Aaron Jones left - a true home-run threat out of the backfield. Jacobs and Wilson can wear down defenses. Lloyd can punish them when they start to wear down.
And it’s not just about running the ball. Lloyd’s ability as a pass-catcher gives Green Bay more flexibility in how they use their backs. He can line up wide, run routes from the slot, or create mismatches against linebackers in space - all things that add layers to LaFleur’s playbook.
A Potential X-Factor Down the Stretch
After missing so much time, it’s easy to forget just how talented MarShawn Lloyd is. But if he stays healthy and gets back into rhythm, he could be a key piece for the Packers as they make their push toward the postseason.
He’s not just depth - he’s a change-of-pace weapon who can flip the field in a single play. And in a league where every yard matters, having a guy like that in your back pocket could be the difference in tight December games.
Lloyd’s story so far has been one of setbacks. But now, with his return on the horizon, the Packers might finally get to see what he can do - and the timing couldn’t be better.