The Green Bay Packers have a new rookie running back in MarShawn Lloyd, and some within the building reportedly believe that him and Aaron Jones have some similarities in their games.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently shared that the organization sees Lloyd and Jones as alike. Additionally, the Packers are very enthusiastic about the rookie and plan to use him a lot.
“Not only with his rushing ability but his ability to catch passes out of the backfield,” Fowler said about the Lloyd and Jones comparisons. “So, the expectation is they’re going to get him acclimated pretty early, try to use him a lot.”
With that kind of comparison, Lloyd is already entering rookie minicamp with sky-high expectations.
MarShawn Lloyd Scouting Report
Caleb Williams may have been the start USC, but Lloyd played a key role in the 2023 offense.
Before joining the Trojans, Lloyd had a solid 2022 season with the South Carolina Gamecocks. He ended that year with 11 total touchdowns and 5.2 yards per rushing attempt.
Lloyd moved to USC to have a chance at a College Football Playoff run. While they didn’t make it to the CFP, Lloyd was an explosive playmaker. He averaged an impressive 7.1 yards per carry for 820 yards and nine touchdowns.
At 5’8″ and 220 pounds, Lloyd is a determined back with fast speed. He continues to push through contact, but when he sees an opening he can take off. Despite his smaller frame, he posted a solid 8.62 Relative Athletic Score.
Lloyd’s main issue is his ball security. He was responsible for eight forced fumbles, including three this past season. His hand size likely plays a factor, coming in with just 8.75-inch hands.
Nevertheless, there’s a lot of potential in Lloyd’s game. That home-run speed and explosiveness can make him the perfect change-of-pace back in Green Bay’s offense.
Packers Competition at Running Back
Lloyd is expected to play a role in Green Bay’s offense. However, he’ll face some strong competition in the running back room.
Josh Jacobs is expected to be the main starting running back. Although he had a tough year, Jacobs led the NFL in rushing in 2022 with 1,653 yards. The Packers also gave him a four-year, $48 million deal that indicates he’ll be the starter.
Lloyd is the favorite to be RB2, but it's not certain. The Packers were impressed with undrafted free agent Emmanuel Wilson last season. He averaged an impressive 6.1 yards per carry, albeit on limited touches.
Wilson will get his chance to establish a role, as will AJ Dillon. A second-round pick in 2020, Dillon hasn’t shown the same playmaking ability out of the backfield in recent years. He averaged a career-worst 3.4 yards per carry this past season, but at 247 pounds, he could still be used in short-yardage situations.
Even undrafted free agent Jarveon Howard will get an opportunity in training camp. He showed a good ability to break tackles and keep his feet moving at Alcorn State.
However, despite a crowded room, no one behind Jacobs has the kind of explosiveness and top-end play speed that Lloyd possesses.
