Who Should I Start? Rico Dowdle or MarShawn Lloyd

Tuesday, March 17, 6:45 AM

Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd will likely have an opportunity to compete for the backup role in 2026. The Packers recently watched Emanuel Wilson depart in free agency, leaving a void to be filled at the No. 2 running back spot behind Josh Jacobs. Green Bay could still add a free agent or draft a rookie to take that spot, but that hasn't happened yet. To this point, it seems like the Packers will lean on an existing internal option to back up Jacobs. Chris Brooks has a slight leg up on the competition, but Lloyd is absolutely in the mix, too. Lloyd carried impressive upside as a third-round pick in 2024, but a tumultuous series of injuries has limited his ability to get on the field. He has played offensive snaps in just one NFL game through two seasons, rushing for 15 yards on six carries. At this point, it appears Lloyd has been cleared of the hip, hamstring, and ankle injuries -- as well as the appendicitis -- that have plagued the early portion of his career. He's firmly in the mix to back up Jacobs this year, and given the starter's age and injury concerns in 2025, we could see a scenario where Lloyd is considered to start a couple of games next season. His price tag is at an all-time low, so it wouldn't hurt to send out a low-risk trade offer for the young running back in dynasty leagues.