Green Bay Packers Urged To Target Veteran Dual-Threat RB After 2026 NFL Draft
The Green Bay Packers left the 2026 NFL Draft with a solid haul of young talent, but they noticeably skipped over the running back position. With only six total draft picks this year, general manager Brian Gutekunst had to prioritize certain areas of the roster.
He simply couldn’t address every single depth need. Now that the draft dust has settled, teams are scouring the remaining free-agent market to fill out their depth charts. According to Bleacher Report analyst Zach Bachar, Green Bay should take a hard look at veteran running back Austin Ekeler.
Easing the Burden on Josh Jacobs
The Green Bay Packers already have their unquestioned starter in Josh Jacobs. He sits squarely atop the depth chart and expects to carry the load this season. However, relying on one back for an entire 17-game season is a massive gamble.
Over the past four seasons, Jacobs has averaged a hefty 17.9 rushing attempts per game. That type of volume takes a toll on a player’s body, especially late in the year when the weather turns cold and playoff races heat up.
Adding a proven veteran like Austin Ekeler provides the perfect solution. Ekeler does not need 20 carries a game to make an impact. He can step in as a highly efficient rotational piece, spelling Jacobs and keeping the primary workhorse fresh for the fourth quarter.
A Weapon in the Passing Game
What truly separates Ekeler from a standard backup running back is his elite versatility. He essentially operates as a wide receiver out of the backfield.
Before last season, Ekeler surpassed 400 receiving yards in six of his eight NFL campaigns. He understands how to run crisp routes, find soft spots in zone coverage, and secure the football on critical third downs.
This skill set aligns perfectly with what Matt LaFleur wants to do offensively. LaFleur frequently uses his running backs in the passing game to create mismatches against linebackers. Giving quarterback Jordan Love a reliable, veteran check-down option like Ekeler would add an entirely new layer of complexity to Green Bay’s offensive attack.
The Elephant in the Room: Injury History
Of course, any discussion about signing Ekeler must address his recent health struggles. His 2025 campaign with the Washington Commanders ended abruptly after just two games.
Ironically, Ekeler suffered a season-ending right Achilles injury right on the turf at Lambeau Field during Week 2. Achilles injuries are notoriously difficult for running backs to overcome, especially for players approaching the age of 30.
Because of this uncertainty, Ekeler remains unsigned. However, this lack of market demand actually works in Green Bay’s favor. The Packers could likely sign him to a highly affordable, incentive-laden “prove-it” contract. If he struggles to regain his burst, the team risks very little financial capital.
Finding the Perfect Offensive Fit
When healthy, Austin Ekeler is one of the most productive offensive weapons in football. We are talking about a player who led the entire NFL in total touchdowns in both 2021 and 2022. He boasts over 9,000 career scrimmage yards and knows exactly what it takes to succeed at the professional level.
Green Bay has a long history of utilizing a potent one-two punch in the backfield. A bruising runner like Jacobs paired with a shifty, pass-catching threat like Ekeler forces defenses to prepare for two completely different styles of play.
As the Green Bay Packers shift their focus toward rookie minicamps and organized team activities, keep an eye on the free-agent wire. Taking a low-risk flyer on a veteran with Ekeler’s pedigree might just be the quiet offseason move that pushes the Green Bay offense to the next level.
