Coming into the season A.J Dillon was the veteran of the running back room.
With the departure of Aaron Jones and the arrival of Josh Jacobs, Dillon was the running back was the most experience with the Packers.
Dillon, who was re-signed this offseason, was going to have the same role as he had in years past.
Furthermore, he came into camp in possibly the best shape he’s been in since arriving to the Packers.
Dillon played in the preseason opener but sustained a stinger or neck injury.
While the injury was thought to be not serious by some.
But as the preseason went on Dillon didn’t see the field.
Some though it was just a percussion as Dillon was a lock to make the roster.
But on cut day, Dillon was put on injured reserve for the season.
Not only is this a big blow to Dillon, who seemed poised to have a good season, its a blow to the Packers RB room.
Young depth behind Jacobs
The impact of A.J Dillon being out of the rest of the season has an affect on the RB depth.
While Josh Jacobs will be carrying most of the load, the depth behind him is pretty low in experience.
Behind Jacobs are 2nd year running back Emanuel Wilson and rookie MarShawn Lloyd.
Emanuel Wilson
Wilson had a great preseason this year and rightfully earned a roster spot.
He has the speed and power to be a running back in the NFL.
Though injuries hampered him throughout his first season.
Wilson finished off last season with 14 carries for 85 yards.
He’ll likely be the 2nd running back behind Jacobs as Wilson is the better option when it comes to past protection.
MarShawn Lloyd
Meanwhile Llyod himself is healing himself back from a hamstring injury.
He has not seen much game action with Llyod seeing action in the preseason opener.
Llyod is one of those players to keep an eye on.
When healthy he is one of the most explosive backs in the NFL.
Lloyd will likely start out as third back behind Jacobs and Wilson.
But if Lloyd can show his game-breaking speed and playing making ability, he may work his way behind Jacobs.
Conclusion
A.J Dillon injury leaves a major hole for the Packers to fill..
Its now up to Wilson and Llyod to fill his spot.
As for Dillon, he essentially signed a one year deal with the Packers.
We’ll have to wait till the end of the season to see if the Packers give him another shot with the team.
