The Green Bay Packers are expected to be without Josh Jacobs for the next couple of weeks because of a finger injury. With the team weighing its options at running back, Kaleb Johnson could take on a larger role in Week 10.
Matt Schneidman said on the *Green Bay Beat* podcast that Johnson is Green Bay’s best option. He questioned whether Marshawn Lloyd has earned more opportunities, saying the third-round pick has yet to prove he deserves a significant workload.
Schneidman pointed to Johnson’s recent production as a reason to give him a chance. In Week 9, Johnson rushed 14 times for 68 yards, including a 34-yard run. He also had six other carries of at least four yards. The Packers had averaged 2.9 yards per carry entering that game. Head coach Matt LaFleur and offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich both praised Johnson’s performance, which was the best by a Green Bay running back this season.
## Passing Downs Could Limit Johnson’s Role
The key question may be how much Johnson plays on passing downs, rather than whether he gets more opportunities than Lloyd. Bill Huber suggested the Packers could turn to Chris Brooks or Pierre Strong in situations that call for a back with more experience on passing downs.
Huber raised concerns about Johnson’s pass protection against a Minnesota defense known for blitzing, asking how much the Packers would trust him in those situations. Brooks is on injured reserve, but Green Bay has opened his practice window, and he is expected to return this week.
Johnson could still see goal-line work and a meaningful number of early-down carries. His role might shrink, however, in the two-minute drill, on obvious passing downs, or if the Packers fall behind.
## Packers Have Reason to Evaluate Johnson
Brooks and Strong are veterans who have been released by other teams, while Johnson offers the possibility of a longer-term role. Green Bay acquired Johnson for a sixth-round pick after he was selected in the third round of the 2025 draft. He is under contract with the Packers through the 2029 season.
The coaching staff has also noted that Johnson is improving as a pass protector. If that progress continues, he could earn a more substantial opportunity in Week 10 and give the Packers a clearer picture of his potential beyond this season.
