Matt LaFleur told reporters on May 28, 2026 that the Green Bay Packers will watch MarShawn Lloyd closely during OTAs and training camp. The third‑round pick from the 2024 draft logged just six carries for 15 yards in his lone regular‑season snap, and LaFleur wants him to “prove what he can do” before preseason begins.
The urgency stems from running back Josh Jacobs‘ recent arrest, a situation that could sideline the veteran and thrust Lloyd into a larger role. LaFleur made it clear that every snap will be earned, and the Packers will consider other options if Lloyd does not rise to the challenge.
What the Numbers Say About Lloyd’s Early Production
Since being drafted, Lloyd has appeared in only one game, carrying six times for 15 yards and failing to reach the first‑down line. That works out to a 2.5‑yard average per carry, well below the league benchmark for a reliable short‑yardage back. Coaches, however, have praised his pass‑blocking technique in practice, a skill that could keep him on the roster even if his rushing numbers lag.
LaFleur’s Public Call‑Out and Its Implications
LaFleur told NBC Sports that Lloyd “has to go out there and prove it” throughout OTAs, training camp, and the preseason. He hinted that Jacobs’ legal issues could elevate Lloyd’s importance on the depth chart, emphasizing consistency over flash.
The coach added that the Packers will evaluate Lloyd’s performance “throughout OTAs, into training camp, into the preseason” before making roster decisions. This layered timeline gives Lloyd multiple chances to showcase durability, vision, and short‑yardage execution.
Key Developments
- Lloyd was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, a cost‑effective gamble that has yet to translate into production.
- Josh Jacobs’ arrest could lead to NFL discipline, potentially opening a roster spot for Lloyd.
- LaFleur’s demand for Lloyd to “prove what he can do” marks the first public scrutiny of a third‑year rookie by the coach.
- The Packers have not announced additional running‑back acquisitions this offseason, signaling Lloyd may be the primary internal solution.
- Lloyd’s lone NFL appearance featured six carries for 15 yards, averaging 2.5 yards per carry with no first‑down conversions.
What’s Next for the Green Bay Packers
If Lloyd can demonstrate reliable short‑yardage ability and solid pass blocking, the Packers could retain a low‑cost asset and preserve cap flexibility for free‑agency moves. A subpar showing may force LaFleur to explore veteran options or practice‑squad routes, potentially reshaping the team’s run‑game balance heading into the 2026 regular season.
The next few weeks of OTAs will be the litmus test, and the coaching staff will likely weigh Lloyd’s performance against the lingering uncertainty surrounding Jacobs. Front‑office brass will watch the numbers closely, knowing that every snap could shift the depth‑chart hierarchy.
How many games has MarShawn Lloyd played for the Packers?
Lloyd has appeared in only one regular‑season game, recording six carries for 15 yards and no first downs.
What round did the Packers draft MarShawn Lloyd?
The team used a third‑round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to select Lloyd, hoping for a cost‑controlled backfield option.
Could Josh Jacobs’ legal issues affect the Packers’ running back depth?
Jacobs’ recent arrest raises the possibility of NFL discipline, which would likely elevate Lloyd’s role on the depth chart.
What specific traits is LaFleur looking for in Lloyd during OTAs?
LaFleur emphasized consistency, short‑yardage vision, and pass‑blocking reliability as key metrics he will track throughout the OTAs.
How might Lloyd’s performance impact the Packers’ salary‑cap situation?
If Lloyd earns a roster spot, the Packers keep a low‑salary player, freeing cap room for veteran signings or other positional upgrades.
