The Green Bay Packers only had six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. So, Matt LaFleur and company didn’t have the opportunity to address a lot of positions this year, especially with the team selecting a kicker with one of the picks.
Running back was one of the positions the Packers didn’t address. But Bleacher Report’s Zach Bachar sees the Packers still having an opportunity to add a running back in NFL free agency.
After the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft, Bachar named the Packers a potential landing spot for veteran running back Austin Ekeler.
“Josh Jacobs sits squarely atop Green Bay’s running back depth chart, but the possible addition of Ekeler could help reduce Jacobs’ workload considering he’s averaged 17.9 rush attempts per game over the past four seasons combined,” wrote Bachar.
“Ekeler may also establish himself as a target for Jordan Love in the Packers’ passing attack, as he surpassed 400 receiving yards in six of his eight seasons prior to last year.”
Ekeler played just two games last season because of injury. Ironically, he sustained a season-ending right Achilles injury at Lambeau Field during Week 2 last year.
But if he can return healthy, Ekeler could be a viable playmaker in the Packers backfield to complement Josh Jacobs.
Ekeler has led the NFL in total touchdowns twice — 2021 and 2022. The 2023 campaign was his most recent 1,000-yard from scrimmage season.
In nine NFL seasons, Ekeler has registered more than 9,000 yards from scrimmage. He has rushed for 4,765 yards in 117 games.
Packers Encouraged to Target Versatile Playmaker Following NFL Draft Miss