The Green Bay Packers faced a thin running back situation during their first media-open organized team activities on May 27, 2026, according to Acme Packing Company. With key players unavailable, attention shifted to former Packers now leading rushing stats in the United Football League.
What happened
On Wednesday, the Packers’ running back room was notably depleted as Josh Jacobs was released from jail that day. Additionally, both MarShawn Lloyd and Damien Martinez were unavailable due to injury. As a result, only Chris Brooks, Pierre Strong Jr., and rookie Jaden Nixon were available for team drills.
Amid this uncertainty, it was revealed that three former Packers currently lead their respective teams in rushing within the United Football League. The league’s leading rusher, Jarveon Howard, boasts 430 yards from 100 carries, although he has yet to score a rushing touchdown. Howard, an undrafted free agent, began his career with the Packers in 2024.[1]
“Howard was waived with an injury designation during training camp of his rookie year,” the report noted.
James Robinson, who previously played for the Packers in 2023, now ranks sixth in the league with 300 rushing yards and three touchdowns. After not seeing regular-season action for two years, he joined the Louisville Kings, where he leads the team in rushing.[3]
Why it matters
The current state of the Packers’ running back roster raises questions about their immediate needs heading into the offseason. With the emergence of former players as top rushers in the UFL, discussions around potential signings could gain traction amidst the Packers’ thin ranks.[2]
Background
On May 20, 2026, the Packers started their offseason workout program. This period is crucial for team evaluations, especially with injuries affecting key positions. Facing challenges with their running back corps could prompt the team to explore options from the UFL as they prepare for the upcoming season.
What’s next
The UFL’s regular season concludes next week, followed by playoffs. All eyes will be on potential transactions that may involve any of the standout former Packers running backs as NFL teams finalize their rosters.
