Green Bay Packers rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd is a candidate to come off injured reserve and take the 53-man roster spot vacated by Tuesday’s trade of Preston Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Lloyd, a third-round pick in the 2024 draft, has missed the last seven games after injuring his ankle in Week 2.
“We’ve got MarShawn Lloyd coming off IR here pretty soon hopefully, that could factor into that,” general manager Brian Gutekunst said Tuesday.
The Packers are on a bye in Week 10, so Gutekunst has until next Saturday to fill his 53-man roster before Green Bay faces the Chicago Bears in Week 11.
Among his options is Lloyd, an explosive runner who hasn’t been healthy as a rookie.
Lloyd rushed six times for 15 yards and caught one pass in his NFL debut against the Indianapolis Colts, but he injured his ankle and was placed on injured reserve. Lloyd also missed time during training camp with hip and hamstring injuries.
Matt LaFleur and the Packers came into the season excited about what Lloyd could bring to the table as a runner and receiver. He has rare burst for a 220-pound running back, and the Packers see him as a capable pass-catcher out of the backfield. But he’ll have to make up for lost time if returns to the roster soon.
The Packers currently have three running backs on the 53-man roster: starter Josh Jacobs and backups Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks. Jacobs is among the league leaders in touches and yards, while Wilson and Brooks have both filled in capably as backup options.
Gutekunst wouldn’t have to activate Lloyd immediately. He can be designated to return and get a three-week practice window without counting against the 53-man roster.