The player in question is Ian Wheeler. Wheeler joined a seven-player workout group that the Packers hosted on Tuesday, as noted in the NFL’s transaction wire for September 9. His prior NFL journey includes time with the Bears, where he earned consideration for a 53-man roster spot as an undrafted free agent in 2024. An ACL injury during a preseason game that year sidelined him and interrupted his momentum. He attempted a comeback in 2025, but the Bears ultimately moved on during last year’s roster cuts with another running back emerging as a priority.
As the Packers look to bolster their depth at running back, they are navigating a roster situation that could affect Week 1 plans. Star player Josh Jacobs remains on the commissioner’s exempt list while legal proceedings unfold in Wisconsin, stemming from two misdemeanor charges connected to an alleged domestic incident at his home in May 2026. This development has prompted the Packers to consider contingency options at the position, particularly if Jacobs is unavailable for the opener.
Ian Wheeler’s potential addition is noteworthy beyond his familiar Bears association. At 24 years old, Wheeler has demonstrated his ability to contribute both on the ground and in the passing game in various leagues. In the spring, he delivered notable rushing totals in the United Football League (UFL), where he ranked among the leaders with 370 rushing yards over nine games and eight rushing touchdowns. He also was one of only a few UFL backs to average more than 5 yards per carry while rushing at least 50 times, underscoring his ability to gain positive yardage and provide a versatile option in the backfield.
Wheeler also gained preseason experience with another NFL organization, the Buffalo Bills, in August. He carried the ball 30 times for 120 yards and found the end zone twice, while catching all four of his targets for 30 receiving yards across three games. Although he did not secure a spot on the final 53-man roster, his performance helped raise his profile as a depth option for teams seeking additional running back depth.
The Packers currently have several backs in the mix who could contribute in Week 1 if needed. On the active roster, MarShawn Lloyd, Chris Brooks, and Kaleb Johnson bring varying levels of experience and production. Lloyd, a 2024 third-round pick, was expected to be a primary contributor, though injuries and other factors limited his production. Brooks has spent multiple seasons with Green Bay and has often contributed on special teams more than in the primary rushing role, with a relatively modest rushing total. Kaleb Johnson, who joined the Packers in a high-profile trade, has shown flashes but has yet to establish a consistent role. Pierre Strong Jr., who is on the practice squad, remains available as a depth option should the team need additional help at the position.
Heading into Week 1, the Packers may opt to deploy a running back committee approach if Jacobs is unavailable or limited. The Week 1 opponent is the Minnesota Vikings, with kickoff scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday. The team will need to balance the ground game with a passing attack, relying on quarterback protections, efficient run schemes, and versatile backs who can contribute in multiple phases of the game.
Injuries and roster decisions are always a factor in coordinating a game plan, especially at the running back position where depth and health can significantly influence outcomes. The potential addition of Wheeler could provide the Packers with an extra option behind their existing backs, offering fresh legs and a different style of running to complement the backfield rotation. If Wheeler earns a spot, he would join the competition to solidify depth and to ensure that Green Bay has enough capable playmakers to sustain a productive ground game and support the offense in all game situations.
As the season progresses, the Packers will continue evaluating roster needs and making strategic moves to optimize their lineup. The focus will remain on aligning talent with scheme, ensuring that the backfield can contribute effectively in both run and pass protection scenarios. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team addresses depth at running back and whether Wheeler or another back earns a prominent role in the rotation.
