Packers trade and free agent RB targets after Josh Jacobs arrest and why each could make sense for Green Bay
· Yahoo Sports
Jacobs’ personal issue is a big question mark for the Packers, who were already in a tough situation in terms of running back depth.
Running back Josh Jacobs was arrested, and that’s a big issue for the Green Bay Packers. Not only because Jacobs is one of their top offensive pieces, but because it’s a position that already had depth issues. The current roster has a combination of role players and developmental pieces, but no veteran, established running back.
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Unless MarShawn Lloyd can finally get healthy, the issues would be real if Jacobs is forced to miss any time - and the team just had its first OTA practice on Tuesday.
So, it’s not absurd to think about adding external pieces. Let’s discuss what the Packers could do there.
Trade targets
- James Conner, Arizona Cardinals
- Justice Hill, Baltimore Ravens
- Isaac Guerendo, San Francisco 49ers
The Cardinals drafted Jeremiyah Love and signed Tyler Allgeier in free agency, so James Conner is a natural trade candidate. It might not be smart to trade for a 31-year-old RB, especially coming from a significant foot injury, but Conner had a decent season in 2024.
Guerendo knows the system because he plays for Kyle Shanahan. With the 49ers’ decision to draft Kaelon Black in the third round, he could be expendable.
The Ravens have Derrick Henry and drafted Adam Randall in the fifth. Justice Hill hasn’t had much running volume, but he’s a fairly efficient runner and a competent receiving back.
Free agents
- Raheem Mostert
- Najee Harris
- Nick Chubb
- Khalil Herbert
- Elijah Mitchell
In free agency, it’s hard to find definitive solutions at this time of the year. Raheem Mostert knows the offensive structure after playing for Kyle Shanahan and Mike McDaniel, but he’s barely played over the past two years. Najee Harris and Nick Chubb both have more experience and track record of production, but injury history.
Chubb was solid for the Houston Texans last year, getting 4.1 yards per carry despite playing behind a questionable offensive line. He's almost three years removed from his serious knee injury, which could be a positive aspect.
Herbert and Mitchell are more like complementary roster pieces to compete for a spot.
Tough situation
The Packers still don't know exactly what the future holds with Josh Jacobs, and the NFL acknowledged the situation in a statement saying the league is "aware of the report and has been in contact with the club." With the legal process still unfolding, a potential suspension remains on the table, and this situation could have several more developments in the coming weeks and months.
Green Bay has some time to wait and see what’s ultimately going to happen. For now, the depth pieces are enough to go through training camp and preseason. But if Jacobs has to miss regular season time, the Packers will inevitably have to consider external options.
For a team with real Super Bowl aspirations, such a problem at this point of the calendar is exactly what the Packers don’t need.