Packers Rumors: MarShawn Lloyd Compared to Aaron Jones; GB to Use Rookie 'A Lot'

The Green Bay Packers "see shades of Aaron Jones" in 2024 third-round draft pick MarShawn Lloyd, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

"Not only with his rushing ability but his ability to catch passes out of the backfield," Fowler said of the comparison between Lloyd and Jones. "So, the expectation is they're going to get him acclimated pretty early, try to use him a lot."

The Packers signed two-time Pro Bowler Josh Jacobs and retained AJ Dillon this offseason, so their decision to take Lloyd was met with some surprise. Using a Day 2 selection on a running back is pretty aggressive when a team isn't in immediate need of backfield help.

But Green Bay clearly thinks a lot of Lloyd, had 1,052 yards from scrimmage and nine touchdowns in 2023 with USC.

The ground game could also look a lot different in 2025. Dillon will be a free agent, while focusing on the broad terms of Jacobs' deal (four years and $48 million) elides how easily the Packers can cut him as early as next offseason.

Fowler's report arguably points to the idea Green Bay is sketching out a possible succession plan where Lloyd takes over for Jacobs down the line.

From a fantasy football perspective, Lloyd is likely to be a non-factor for the most part in 2024. As long as Jacobs stays healthy, it's hard to see how he gets enough touches to move the needle.

In keeper leagues, though, the former Trojans star could have a lot of upside.