The Green Bay Packers have changed their entire running back room in 2024.
Instead of bringing back Aaron Jones, the Packers signed superstar Josh Jacobs. They also drafted MarShawn Lloyd to add to this backfield before re-signing AJ Dillion.
In a crowded running back room on an offense filled with playmaking ability, can Lloyd’s fantasy football outlook tantalize us into drafting him?
Let’s examine Lloyd’s fantasy outlook and assess this rookie’s potential role in Green Bay.
MarShawn Lloyd’s Fantasy Profile for the 2024 Season
Lloyd has a starting-NFL-caliber size and speed with a 5-foot-9, 215-pound frame. He doesn’t just look the part; he can play the part as well.
Lloyd has NFL speed and athleticism to help break big plays throughout a game. He isn’t just explosive, but he can also be elusive, bringing an “all-around” caliber talent to your backfield. This doesn’t just display itself on running plays; he can also replicate his skills through the passing game.
Most rookies’ issue is pass protection. That’s not the case for Lloyd, who has the stature to block for Green Bay’s franchise quarterback, Jordan Love.
Now that we have discussed what he can bring to the field on a positive level, let’s look at what may keep him limited in the Packers’ rotation.
Lloyd has vision issues on the field. Sometimes, he will bounce runs to the sideline that should not be taken to the outside. He needs to realize that not every run needs to be a Madden highlight. We can also survive with him hitting the A-gap, mustering four yards, and living to go for the home run shot on another play.
Lloyd also struggles to see cutback lanes as fast as other running backs. This issue limits his upside on zone-blocking run plays and hinders his ability to help the offense move down the field.
The skill set isn’t the only thing holding him back, but opportunity will hamper Lloyd’s rookie season. Jacobs is a bell-cow-style running back who can produce in both the running and passing games. Outside of injury, Lloyd will be a spell back more than an offensive skeleton key for Green Bay’s offense.
Is Lloyd a Good Fantasy Pick?
Lloyd’s average draft position (ADP) is No. 146, which means the risk does not outweigh the reward.
However, at this point in the draft, players such as Rashid Shaheed, Joshua Palmer, and Rico Dowdle could provide a more significant upside for your fantasy team.
We do not have to worry about concerns regarding his bye week, as the Packers enjoy their rest during the Week 10 campaign.
With that said, in a crowded running back room, Lloyd’s future does not appear bright in 2024.