On Wednesday, just days before the unofficial start of NFL free agency, the Green Bay Packers confirmed they re-signed running back Chris Brooks. According to his agency, One West Sports Group, Brooks agreed to a two-year contract worth $4.85 million, securing his role with the team heading into the 2026 season. This move comes as Brooks was set to become a restricted free agent, with a tender starting at $3.52 million, making the new deal advantageous both financially and strategically for both sides.
Roster Changes and Running Back Depth
The signing carries increased importance given the Packers’ decision not to tender Emanuel Wilson, the team’s No. 2 back over the last two years. Wilson will enter free agency unrestricted, and sources suggest he is likely to command a salary beyond what Green Bay is prepared to offer. This opens the door for Brooks, who has primarily played the third-down role, to compete for a more prominent position as the No. 2 running back in the coming season.
Alongside Brooks and starter Josh Jacobs, the Packers’ running back room includes younger players such as MarShawn Lloyd, a third-round pick in 2024 with limited game experience, Pierre Strong, mostly on the practice squad in 2025, and Damien Martinez, a seventh-round pick by Seattle who joined Green Bay’s practice squad late last season. The running back position is likely to be a focus for the Packers in the 2026 draft or free agency, given this mix of developing talent and veteran presence.
Brooks’ Impact Beyond the Stat Sheet
Chris Brooks has made a name for himself as a tough, reliable third-down back, especially skilled at protecting the quarterback against blitzes. His key blitz pickup during a difficult victory over the New York Giants stood out as a pivotal moment that allowed quarterback Jordan Love to complete a critical third-down pass.
This blitz pickup is why RB Chris Brooks (#30) will always have a spot on any roster coached by Matt LaFleur. Brilliant stuff. pic.twitter.com/RTr3lx8wsH
— Michael Rodney, Packers Analyst
Josh Jacobs praised Brooks’ effort and significance, stating,
“Honestly, we get more hyped about those then we do about the runs. I tell them, pass pro, 65 percent of it is knowing who to block and the rest is wanting to block. Obviously, you can always correct technique and stuff like that, but you got to have the want-to to go out there and do that. Especially with guys that’s 30 pounds heavier than you, to be able to just strain and really lock in.”
Jacobs added,
“When we seen that play, we always said, if you give Jordan time, he going to make plays. That was probably the biggest play for our group in that game. So, shoutout to him, man. Chris is a dawg. I don’t think that he gets enough appreciation and credit for who he is to this team, honestly. Whether it’s special teams or whether it’s something in our room. But yeah, I’m happy for him. Hopefully, his role keeps expanding a little bit.”
Statistical Strength and Versatility
Though Brooks’ primary function has not been as a ball carrier, his work after contact ranks highly among NFL running backs. Over three seasons split between Miami in 2023 and Green Bay in 2024 and 2025, Brooks is among the top performers in rushing yards after contact per carry and in frequency of broken tackles. His running style is described simply by Brooks himself:
“I’d like to think I run hard.”
His receiving experience remains limited, with 24 receptions across his two Green Bay seasons, but his reliable hands suggest potential for a larger role in the passing game in 2026. Additionally, Brooks’ contributions on special teams have been significant, leading the Packers alongside Zayne Anderson with 14 special teams tackles last season, a factor likely to be valued by new special teams coordinator Cam Achord.
You just have so much faith when he’s in the game and when he’s in practice because you know you’re going to get everything he has,
— Ben Sirmans, Packers Running Backs Coach
Evaluating the Contract’s Impact
Re-signing Brooks was a strategic necessity due to Emanuel Wilson’s expected exit and the injury history of running back MarShawn Lloyd. The deal addresses the Packers’ need for depth and reliability in the running back position while maintaining salary flexibility. Industry observers have graded the contract as a solid “B” move, recognizing both its financial prudence and its impact on roster stability heading into an important free agency period.
This blitz pickup is why RB Chris Brooks (#30) will always have a spot on any roster coached by Matt LaFleur. Brilliant stuff. pic.twitter.com/RTr3lx8wsH
— Michael Rodney (@PackersNotes) November 17, 2025
