The Green Bay Packers have a running back problem.
AJ Dillon is out for the entire season, and the Packers could also miss backups MarShawn Lloyd and Emanuel Wilson for Friday's opener against the Philadelphia Eagles in Brazil. Lloyd has been dealing with a hamstring issue since the first preseason game, and Wilson is also uncertain to play due to a hip injury.
That leaves Josh Jacobs and the practice squad.
Fortunately, the Packers have strengthened their practice-squad backfield with a new addition, just in time for their flight to Brazil.
Packers sign former Dolphins running back Chris Brooks to the practice squad
Matt LaFleur can thank his good buddy Mike McDaniel for having such incredible running back depth. The Miami Dolphins boast arguably the league's deepest backfield, featuring Raheem Mostert, De'Von Achane, rookie Jaylen Wright, and Jeff Wilson.
It left no room on the 53-man roster for talented running back Chris Brooks, who the Dolphins released with an injury settlement earlier this week. Brooks had starred in the preseason but entered the concussion protocol after Miami's second exhibition contest.
The 2023 undrafted free agent showed big-play ability with a 59-yard run against the Washington Commanders in the preseason.
On that play, Brooks shows his ability to break tackles. Despite only rushing 19 times last season, he forced an impressive nine missed tackles, per PFF.
Brooks impressed the Dolphins' coaching staff last summer but was limited to just 19 carries for 106 yards in the regular season, a healthy average of 5.6 yards per attempt. Miami has incredible running back depth, so Brooks didn't get much playing time. However, after another strong preseason, he deserves an opportunity elsewhere.
The Packers are a perfect landing spot.
There are similarities between the two offenses. It's unclear whether this move is a reaction to the Packers' injury concerns or simply about adding a talented player to the practice squad. Either way, Brooks has potential and is a smart signing.
Even if he doesn't play initially, Brooks can earn a spot on the 53-man roster and push Wilson for the No. 3 job.
