Green Bay Packers Face Intense Training Camp Battle For RB2 Position

The Green Bay Packers’ backfield is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched battles this training camp. With Josh Jacobs firmly entrenched as the team’s star running back, all eyes are shifting to the competition for the RB2 role. It’s an open race, with players like MarShawn Lloyd, Emanuel Wilson, Chris Brooks, and Israel Abanikanda looking to make their mark.

This battle is more than just about who gets to back up Jacobs—it’s about defining the Packers’ offensive strategy for the 2025 season. With speedsters, power backs, and versatile playmakers in the mix, the Packers face a good problem to have. Here’s a closer look at the contenders and the stakes.

MarShawn Lloyd: The Green Bay Packers Drafted Favorite

MarShawn Lloyd, the Packers’ third-round pick from the 2024 NFL Draft, is among the leading candidates for the RB2 position. Known for his agility, burst, and ability to hit the hole with authority, Lloyd has already shown glimmers of his potential in his rookie year. Though injuries slowed him down last season, Lloyd still managed to flash his change-of-pace abilities as a dynamic complement to Jacobs’ punishing running style.

Standing at 5’10” and weighing 220 pounds, Lloyd has the physicality and speed to act as a versatile weapon. His dual-threat nature as a runner and receiver out of the backfield could make him a favorable option for Matt LaFleur’s offensive schemes. If he can stay healthy and cement his consistency during camp, Lloyd may have the inside track to secure the RB2 spot.

Emanuel Wilson: Proven in Pressure Moments

Emanuel Wilson is no stranger to battling against the odds. The undrafted rookie who clawed his way onto the 2023 roster became a reliable backup last season, stepping in when Lloyd suffered injuries. Wilson delivered when it mattered most, rushing for 502 yards and four touchdowns during the 2024 season. His strong showing has made him a fan favorite and a trusted choice among the coaching staff.

What sets Wilson apart is his relentless work ethic and penchant for making the most of his snaps. At 225 pounds, he thrives on physicality and excels in short-yardage scenarios. But his growth as a pass-catcher and his ability to read defenses have significantly improved his case for the RB2 role. While Lloyd may come in as the presumptive favorite, Wilson’s performances under pressure make him a serious contender.

Chris Brooks: Fighting to Stay in the Mix

Chris Brooks might be flying under the radar compared to some of the other competitors, but he’s not out of the picture. The third-year back had a modest contribution to the Packers’ offense in 2024, totaling 183 rushing yards and notching his first career touchdown. However, Brooks has a history of performing well in preseason, showing flashes that he could handle a bigger workload.

At 6’1″ and 215 pounds, Brooks brings an intriguing mix of size and power. He’s not the flashiest candidate, but his ability to grind out tough yards could provide stability. Brooks will need to stand out in the preseason games to make his case for a spot in the rotation—or even just on the roster. His experience in the system, however, gives him a small edge over some of the newer faces in camp.

Israel Abanikanda: An Explosive Dark Horse

Claimed off waivers from San Francisco earlier this year, Israel Abanikanda is the wild card in this competition. The 2023 fifth-round pick had a limited role with the 49ers but came into the NFL with a reputation for explosive playmaking ability. At just 5’11” and 205 pounds, Abanikanda has the speed to rip off long runs and the vision to take advantage of uneven defensive fronts.

His challenge in Green Bay will be proving that he’s more than just a home-run hitter. Consistency in pass protection and demonstrating a well-rounded game during preseason matchups will be critical for him. If he succeeds, Abanikanda could push to make the RB2 race more interesting—or at the very least, force the Packers to find a way to maximize his skill set.

Amar Johnson Joins the Fray

Though Amar Johnson is a newcomer and just recently activated from the non-football injury (NFI) list, he’s stepping into camp amidst stiff competition. Despite being an undrafted rookie, Johnson boasts an impressive college pedigree, having racked up over 1,200 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in his senior year at South Dakota State.

Realistically, Johnson’s best path to a roster spot may be through a standout showing in preseason games and proving his value on special teams. For now, he adds depth—and intrigue—to what is already a crowded room.

The Road Ahead

While the Green Bay Packers’ RB2 competition highlights its fair share of individual talent, it also underscores broader implications for the team’s success in 2025. With Josh Jacobs set to absorb the lion’s share of carries, whoever earns the RB2 role will still play a pivotal part—whether it’s providing a change of pace, filling in when injuries strike, or capitalizing on limited snaps to keep defenses on their heels.

Training camp and preseason performances will be decisive. Each running back has unique skills, but only those who can consistently bring versatility, dependability, and upside will earn a spot in the Packers’ rotation. For Green Bay, this isn’t just about picking a backup—it’s about choosing who will help propel their offense into the postseason. The competition, no doubt, will be fierce, and fans will be watching with bated breath to see how it all shakes out.