The Green Bay Packers didn’t have an adequate enough backfield Plan B in the event Josh Jacobs missed time this season. But as the Packers have seen with their offensive line, which they have been able to improve significantly on the fly with new acquisitions, it’s not too late to add a running back.
One name keeps popping up in the rumor miller — Tony Pollard.
This week, A to Z Sports’ Wendell Ferreira was the latest to discuss Pollard as a trade target for the Packers.
“Pollard has been underrated and efficient as a runner. He is making $7.26 million this season, so Green Bay would absorb around $3 million, a notable option while Josh Jacobs is out. If the Packers don’t see Jacobs returning this season, Pollard could be an upgrade,” wrote Ferriera.
MarShawn Lloyd showed some signs of life against the Chicago Bears, but Pollard could still be an upgrade. However, he is 29, at a position where players tend to regress around 30, so that investment comes with risk.”
Ferriera suggesting Pollard as a trade candidate for Green Bay came after Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox and Pro Football Focus’s Bradley Locker did as well this week.
Pollard has gained 273 yards on the ground with one touchdown this season. He has also caught eight passes for 24 additional yards.
The 29-year-old running back entered this season with four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. He made the Pro Bowl with the Dallas Cowboys in 2022.
Why Packers Adding Tony Pollard in a Trade Makes Sense
As Ferreira mentioned, MarShawn Lloyd showed signs of life in Week 5. Lloyd ran for two impressive touchdowns near the goal line.
But as far as yardage goes, Lloyd and the rest of the Packers running backs have left something to be desired. That’s arguably a pretty big understatement too.
Lloyd leads the team with only 22.4 rushing yards per game. His 112 rushing yards is best on the team while he’s averaged only 2.8 yards per carry.
Chris Brooks has been far more efficient with 4.7 yards per rush, but he’s only earned 15 carries. Kaleb Johnson has 106 rushing yards behind a 3.9 yards per carry average.
Fumbling has been an issue for this group too. Lloyd and Johnson have each fumbled twice.
Pollard would provide an immediate upgrade for the unit. Yes, his age could be a concern, but if the Packers are concerned about this season, then he’s a logical trade fit. Pollard isn’t signed beyond this season anyway, so he would be a rental player for Green Bay.
Pollard averaged 4.5 yards per carry on his way to 1,082 rushing yards in 17 games last season. It was his four consecutive campaign with more than 1,280 yards from scrimmage.
The Packers need a running back with that kind of production ability to fully replace Jacobs for the rest of this season.
Packers RB Trade Proposal Gaining Steam Should Josh Jacobs Not Return