There are rumors that the Packers will reorganize the running back room.
The Packers’ running back position was a heated topic, according to Matthew Berry of NBC Sports, who recently revealed observations from the NFL Scouting Combine. Berry stated that the team will probably proceed with an in-house alternative instead of a past second-round selection.
On March 5, Berry wrote, “Expect the team to move on from A.J. Dillon this off-season.” “Emmanuel Wilson will get a chance to play a significant role behind Aaron Jones, but they’ll keep Jones and probably select an RB early on Day 3.” They think well of him.
Emanuel Wilson is content with his surprising rise with the Packers.
Wilson, a 2023 D-II Fort Valley State rookie who was not selected in the draft, made a surprising impression last summer after joining the club in May following a brief stay with the Broncos. He was able to get a position on the 53-man roster of the Green Bay Packers.
The 5-foot-11, 227-pound tailback was the Packers’ third option on the depth chart and saw limited action in the previous campaign. Wilson had to lose time due to a shoulder issue, but he took advantage of the few opportunities he did have.
Wilson played 33 offensive snaps, rushing the ball 26 times for 121 yards at an amazing average of 4.7 yards per carry, including two rushes of more than ten yards, according to Pro Football Focus. By their methodology, he had a commendable offensive grade of 80.0.
The Green Bay Packers are looking for more explosiveness at second running back in order to properly complement Jones. Despite his consistency, Dillon’s ability to create plays was lacking; in 2023, he only averaged 3.4 yards per run. Behind Jones, the squad hopes to have a flexible player who can ignite the offense and generate possibilities.
Wilson has shown his burst and elusiveness in both the preseason and regular season performances, despite the limited opportunities.
The offense gains a vital component from Wilson’s ability to execute chunk plays, which nudge opponents toward the line of scrimmage and open lanes for Jordan Love in the throwing game. When Jones was not on the field, this component was essentially nonexistent.
Wilson not only carries the ball well but also successfully catches five of the six passes thrown his way for 34 yards in the previous season, indicating in a small sample size that he has the ability to be a versatile asset.
Packers of the Green Bay Plan to Select an RB in the NFL Draft
Opportunities for the second running back become even more important as Jones enters the later phases of his career and his snap count is scheduled to be managed in 2024.
As previously stated, the Packers want to let Dillon go. According to PFF, Dillon will get a two-year contract worth $6.5 million guaranteed and $6.5 million overall on the free market. Wilson provides the Packers, who are still dealing with salary cap difficulties, with a far more affordable option.
Berry mentioned Wilson’s potential as well as the possibility of the Packers selecting a running back early on Day 3 of the NFL Draft. With 11 draft selections in 2024, general manager Brian Gutkunst says he would like to add a “bigger back” to the mix.
This possible strategy shows the Green Bay Packers’ dedication to fortifying the running back room, guaranteeing competition and depth for the forthcoming year, and getting ready for life after Jones.