Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd took a grand total of six carries in the first two years of his career. He could match that total in one half of football in 2026.
Lloyd, who has dealt with a catalog of injuries throughout his career, including missing all of 2025 due to soft tissue issues, is in line for a massive role to open the season following Josh Jacobs’ placement on the Commissioner’s Exempt List. Jacobs faces misdemeanor charges of battery and criminal damage to property stemming from what police described as a physical confrontation with his girlfriend.
Lloyd is ready for whatever role Matt LaFleur and the staff have for him.
“I trust in my ability,” he said via the team’s official website. “Don’t do too much, just be you. I think being me got me here.
“You can’t make it bigger than what it is or you’re going to make mistakes or you’re going to do things trying to be someone (else). So I think the best thing for me is just to have fun with it. Have fun and enjoy myself.”
A third-round pick in 2024, Lloyd has participated in one career game, Week 2 of his rookie campaign, when he took 6 carries for 15 yards and caught one pass for 3 yards. Lloyd’s injuries, coupled with Jacobs’ lingering legal issues dating back to the spring, made it somewhat of a surprise that the Packers did not add any veteran backup insurance. However, the club has been steadfast in its belief that Lloyd is past the injuries.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst said Lloyd is “as ready as he’s ever been since he’s been here.” The GM also brushed aside any injury concerns, noting that every running back in the NFL gets “dinged up” at one point or another.
“I think his mind is right and he’s ready to go,” Gutekunst said. “We’re excited to see what he can do. Each week he can be out there, you’re going to see a better and better MarShawn.”
After nearly two years of inactivity, Lloyd knocked the rust off during the preseason, taking 10 totes for 30 yards and catching two passes for 7 yards and a TD.
With Jacobs sidelined for an indefinite period of time, Lloyd profiles as the top back with third-down option Chris Brooks next in line. Recently acquired Kaleb Johnson, a 2025 third-round pick by Pittsburgh, could play an early-down role once he gets up to speed. Green Bay also has Pierre Strongas a practice-squad call-up option.
The season will start with Lloyd likely first in the saddle.
“I’m ready to play as much as they want me to play,” Lloyd said. “I’m excited. It’s a dream come true playing for the Packers, so however much carries I get, however much they put me in the game, I’m ready to go.”