After two seasons marred by injuries, the Green Bay Packers are holding firm in their belief that running back MarShawn Lloyd can still make an impact—potentially as soon as the 2026 season. The 2024 third-round pick has managed just one regular-season appearance since being drafted, but the team's recent moves suggest they haven't given up on his potential.

The biggest hint came during free agency, when the Packers let Emanuel Wilson depart for Seattle without drafting a replacement at running back. That decision, paired with the re-signing of Chris Brooks, leaves a clear path for Lloyd to compete for the No. 2 role behind star back Josh Jacobs.

Running backs coach Ben Sirmans recently shared an optimistic update on Lloyd's physical condition, noting that the young back has made significant strides in his recovery. "He talked about how much stronger he is just in his lower half of his body. Stronger than he's ever been," Sirmans told Packers.com. "He's got a regimen that he does before we even go out to practice. We're very optimistic, but we've all been optimistic before, so we just gotta wait and see."

That cautious tone is understandable given Lloyd's injury history. Since arriving in Green Bay, he's dealt with hip, hamstring, ankle, groin, and calf issues—including recurring hamstring problems—plus an appendix surgery. His last regular-season action came in Week 2 of the 2024 campaign.

Still, the talent that made him a third-round pick hasn't disappeared. Lloyd possesses explosive athletic ability and versatility as a receiving threat out of the backfield—traits that could give the Packers' offense a dynamic change of pace behind Jacobs. With a full offseason of health and a proven training regimen, Lloyd enters training camp with a golden opportunity to finally deliver on his promise. For Packers fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike, this is a story worth watching closely.