Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Packers make their first free agency move, and it's a smart decision to gain more roster flexibility

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Wendell Ferreira | Last updated Mar 4, 2026 2:53 PM ET

The first domino of free agency for the Green Bay Packers has fallen. Running back Chris Brooks, who was set to hit restricted free agency, has extended his contract with the Packers signing a new two-year, $4.85 million deal.

Chris Brooks was set to become a restricted free agent, but the Packers didn't want to use a tender on him — the lowest one, rights of first refusal, would be $3.822 million. By doing this extension, the Packers keep Brooks around for two years, lower the initial cap hit, and avoid a scenario where another team tries to make him an offer. His agency broke the news on social media.

Running back Chris Brooks and the #Packers have agreed to terms on a 2 year deal worth $4.85m. #OWSG pic.twitter.com/FyMAE6fCAX
— One West Sports Group (@OneWestSports) March 4, 2026

What Chris Brooks brings to the table

The running back has spent the past two seasons on the Packers. A reliable runner, he is best known for his ability as a pass protector — Brooks has one of the best blitz pick-ups among running backs in the entire NFL.

In two seasons for the Packers, Chris Brooks has had 289 rushing yards, 24 receiving yards, and a touchdown.

Chris Brooks pass protects like a good guard. pic.twitter.com/MI2GyhAcLQ
— Wendell Ferreira (@wendellfp) November 17, 2025

Running back depth

The decision to extend Chris Brooks is particularly relevant because Emanuel Wilson is also set to become a free agent. Wilson would be a restricted one too, but the Packers won't apply an RFA tender on him, making him an unrestricted free agent and available to sign with anyone.

The running back room on the Packers has Josh Jacobs as the unquestioned starter and former third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd as a backup — however, Lloyd has barely played in the NFL due to a sequence of injuries. The team has also given future contracts to Pierre Strong Jr. and Damien Martinez, who finished the season on the practice squad.

A 26-year-old player, Chris Brooks went undrafted and initially signed with the Miami Dolphins, where he spent his rookie year. Cut by Miami right before the season in 2024, he was added by the Packers and carved out a role within Matt LaFleur's offensive scheme.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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