As the 2026 NFL scouting combine kicks off this week, the Green Bay Packers are set to weigh their options for the upcoming draft despite lacking a first-round pick due to last year’s trade involving Micah Parsons. General manager Brian Gutekunst holds eight selections in this year’s draft and aims to use them to strengthen several team areas, including securing a dependable No. 2 running back behind Josh Jacobs. The focus on this position is critical, especially because MarShawn Lloyd, a 2024 third-round pick, has struggled with injuries that have limited his playing time to just one game over two seasons. This situation raises uncertainty about Lloyd’s reliability and encourages the Packers to explore alternatives in the draft.
Interest in Barika Kpeenu Signals Possible Challenges for Lloyd’s Role
The Packers have shown interest in Barika Kpeenu, a promising running back prospect who could threaten MarShawn Lloyd’s chances of solidifying a backup role. Although Lloyd remains under contract for two more years, his injury history and lack of consistent play have complicated the team’s depth at the running back position. Alongside Jacobs, Lloyd is one of only two running backs signed through 2027, while others like Pierre Strong and Damien Martinez are signed on short-term deals and have yet to take a snap for Green Bay.
Maintaining the current roster depth may not be sustainable if the Packers want steady offensive performance as the 2026 season begins. The certainty over veteran RB Emanuel Wilson’s status is unclear due to his upcoming restricted free agency, which further emphasizes the need for a reliable second running back. Kpeenu’s rise at North Dakota State makes him a target worth evaluating for filling that void.
Kpeenu’s development at North Dakota State saw notable improvements each year, culminating in a career-best 2025 season. He recorded 191 carries for 1,005 rushing yards, averaging 77.3 yards per game, and scored 20 touchdowns—nearly doubling his total from previous years combined. In addition, Kpeenu contributed as a receiver with 20 catches for 247 yards and another touchdown. Although his pass-blocking remains a work in progress, Packers running backs coach Ben Sirmans, who has coached Green Bay’s backfield for a decade, could help sharpen those skills.
The Packers highly value running backs who can contribute in multiple facets—rushing, receiving, and blocking. Unfortunately, MarShawn Lloyd has yet to demonstrate consistent all-around performance due to his setbacks, frustrating fans hopeful for a breakthrough debut since his draft year. The interest in Kpeenu suggests the team is preparing alternatives if Lloyd cannot secure his place.
Lloyd’s Future With the Packers Hinges on Health and Performance
There is no indication the Packers are ready to move on from Lloyd immediately, as he still has two years left on his contract. However, adding a high-potential player like Kpeenu may act as motivation for Lloyd to address his injury issues and elevate his contributions on the field. At 25, Lloyd is still young enough to revive his career if he can maintain his health and prove his value.
The reported interest in new running back prospects is a clear message that Lloyd’s position is not guaranteed, putting him under pressure to demonstrate his worth to head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst. Success in doing so could secure him a key role in the Packers’ offense for multiple seasons.
Conversely, should Lloyd fail to overcome his injury history and miss further opportunities, the likelihood of him departing Green Bay increases—potentially ending his tenure with the team and jeopardizing his NFL future. His ability to remain healthy and productive will ultimately determine whether he continues contributing in Titletown or seeks a chance elsewhere.
Per source, the Packers were one of 10 teams that met with Barika Kpeenu at the American Bowl.
Former track athlete. He forced 31 missed tackles this past season and had 567 yards after contact.
Could be a late Day 3 target. https://t.co/Gxds5lg2ns
— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen_Rupp) February 19, 2026
