The Green Bay Packers enter training camp with uncertainty in their backfield. Josh Jacobs’ ongoing legal situation has created questions about his status for the upcoming season, and one Packers insider believes a little-known third-year running back could emerge as an important contributor in 2026.
Packers reporter Bill Huber has expressed strong belief in MarShawn Lloyd heading into the 2026 season. In a recent mailbag column, he addressed several reader questions centered on the young running back and his potential role with the team.
“Yes, I do think this year will be different,” Huber wrote.
“He practiced every day during the spring. Obviously, a Tuesday in June isn’t the same as a Tuesday during training camp or a Sunday during the regular season, but, as the saying goes, a journey of a million miles starts with the first step. Being available for OTAs and minicamp is a really big first step that even Lloyd pointed out.”
Marshawn Lloyd with the Green Bay Packers
Lloyd’s early career has been slowed considerably by health setbacks, as a series of hamstring problems and other lower-body ailments have kept him sidelined for extended stretches. This time around, though, the Green Bay Packers backup running back arrives at training camp fully cleared and ready to participate without restrictions.
Huber also fielded a question about whether Lloyd could eventually take over as the starting running back in 2027 if he delivers in 2026. He suggested that scenario is realistic, particularly given the sizable salary cap figure attached to Jacobs heading into the next season.
“So, how about this: I’d give Lloyd a 35 percent chance to be the Week 1 starter in [2027], a 30 percent chance for it being Jacobs, a 20 percent chance for it being Chris Brooks and a 15 percent chance for it being a rookie or some other low-level veteran,” the insider added.
For now, however, any discussion about Lloyd stepping into a larger role depends entirely on him delivering a strong 2026 campaign. That outcome is still hypothetical, especially since he has not yet participated in a full padded practice during the current offseason.