Packers Lose Rookie to Potential Season-Ending Medical Setback

Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd has encountered yet another medical setback in what has already been a challenging rookie season.

The 2024 third-round pick is now dealing with appendicitis, a condition that could sideline him for the rest of the year.

The injury was discovered on November 15, just ahead of the Packers’ Week 11 practice before their game against the Chicago Bears.

Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that Lloyd reported abdominal pain, and subsequent evaluations revealed the need for treatment.

At this point, it’s unclear whether Lloyd has already undergone surgery, and the team is uncertain about his return date.

This latest setback follows a series of injuries that have plagued Lloyd throughout his rookie campaign.

After making his debut in Week 2 against the Indianapolis Colts, Lloyd suffered a high ankle sprain that placed him on injured reserve.

He had only just returned to practice on November 11, signaling a possible return to action before this latest medical issue arose.

LaFleur expressed his disappointment, stating, “It’s a shame because he was making progress, but he’ll rebound,” signaling confidence in Lloyd’s ability to recover despite the misfortune.

The timing of Lloyd’s appendicitis complicates matters for the Packers, as the running back was already working through a 21-day practice window after being activated from injured reserve.

However, there’s a chance the team might be able to keep him in play later in the season, thanks to the NFL’s policy that allows teams to designate a player for two returns from IR each season.

The Packers are reportedly in discussions with the league to explore options that could allow Lloyd to return later in 2024, although recovery from appendicitis typically takes several weeks.

Lloyd’s ongoing injury woes have forced the Packers to adjust their backfield plans. The team had hoped Lloyd would be a key contributor alongside veteran Josh Jacobs, but with the rookie sidelined for an extended period, second-year running back Emanuel Wilson will continue to serve as the primary backup. Wilson has had a modest but effective role, averaging 4.8 yards per carry on 57 attempts. He has also been a reliable target in the passing game, catching nine passes for 47 yards and scoring two touchdowns this season. While Jacobs remains the team’s lead rusher, Wilson’s performance has helped mitigate the loss of both Lloyd and veteran A.J. Dillon, who was also lost to injury earlier in the season.

The Packers will continue to monitor Lloyd’s recovery while relying on Wilson and Jacobs to carry the workload in the backfield. Though this new setback is frustrating for the rookie and the team, there remains hope that Lloyd can return to action later in the year, provided his recovery progresses well.