With the second running back position behind Aaron Jones presently up for grabs, the Green Bay Packers may consider undrafted rookie Emanuel Wilson as a contender for the coveted post in Matt LaFleur’s playbook.
According to Matthew Berry of NBC Sports, who recently revealed his observations from the NFL Scouting Combine, the Packers’ running back problem was a heated topic. Berry stated that the team will most likely move on from a past second-round pick and instead pursue an in-house candidate.
“Expect the team to move on from A.J. Dillon this off-season,” Berry stated on March 5. “They’ll keep Aaron Jones and presumably choose a running back early on Day 3, but Emmanuel Wilson will get a chance to play a significant role behind Jones. “They like him.”
Emmanuel Wilson Enjoying the unexpected rise with the Packers.
Wilson, an undrafted rookie from D-II Fort Valley State in 2023, made a surprise debut last summer after signing with the team in May following a brief time with the Broncos. He earned a spot on the Green Bay Packers’ 53-man roster.
Last season, the 5-foot-11, 227-pound tailback had a limited role as the Packers’ third option on the depth chart. Wilson sustained a shoulder injury that forced him to miss time, but he took advantage of the few opportunities he did have.
Wilson had 33 offensive snaps and carried the ball 26 times for 121 yards, with an amazing average of 4.7 yards per carry, including two rushes of over 10 yards. He had a commendable offensive grade of 80.0 based on their metric.
To properly complement Jones, the Green Bay Packers are looking for greater explosiveness in their second running back. While Dillon was consistent, his playmaking abilities was limited, averaging only 3.4 yards per carry in 2023. The team envisions a diverse option behind Jones, who can create chances and energize the offense.
Despite limited opportunities, Wilson demonstrated his burst and elusiveness in both preseason and regular-season games.
Wilson’s ability to deliver huge plays enhances the offense by bringing defenders closer to the line of scrimmage and creating throwing opportunities for Jordan Love. This element was essentially nonexistent when Jones was not on the field.
In addition to his ball-carrying ability, Wilson grabbed five of six passes thrown his way for 34 yards last season, displaying his versatility in a small sample size.
Green Bay Packers intend to address RB in the NFL draft.
With Jones nearing the end of his career and a snap count slated to be managed in 2024, opportunities for the second running back become even more important.
As previously stated, the Packers intend to part ways with Dillon, who PFF believes will sign a two-year contract on the open market costing $6.5 million overall and $4 million guaranteed. Wilson provides a far more cost-effective option for the Packers, who are still dealing with cap concerns.
In addition to Wilson’s potential, Berry advised that the Packers look into drafting a running back early on Day 3 of the NFL Draft. In 2024, General Manager Brian Gutkunst has 11 draft picks and displays desire in adding a ‘larger back’ to the mix.
This conceivable strategy demonstrates the Green Bay Packers’ dedication to upgrading the running back room, assuring depth and competitiveness for the following season, and planning for life after Jones.
