With MarShawn Lloyd sidelined due to a hamstring injury, the Green Bay Packers' backfield dynamics for the 2025 season shift significantly. Lloyd, who was expected to be the backup to Josh Jacobs, will miss the start of the season, leaving Emmanuel Wilson as the primary handcuff.
Emmanuel Wilson is poised to take on the No. 2 running back role. In 2024, he achieved career highs with 504 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, leading the NFL with a 50.5% rushing success rate. This efficiency makes him a high-upside fantasy option should Jacobs be unavailable.
For fantasy managers, Wilson is a must-roster handcuff in both dynasty and redraft leagues. His potential to deliver low-end RB1 or flex value in the event of a Jacobs injury is significant, given his proven efficiency and the expected volume of 15+ touches per game if elevated to a starting role.
Meanwhile, Josh Jacobs remains the clear RB1 for the Packers, with no immediate threat to his workload. However, Wilson's presence as a backup ensures that the Packers' running game remains potent even in Jacobs' absence. Fantasy managers should prioritize Wilson as a strategic handcuff, leveraging his high ceiling in the 2025 season.
