NFL Insider Believes Packers' 'Early Surprise' Is Real

A Packers insider says Green Bay’s “early surprise” is real: the team can’t run the ball. ESPN asked each of its 32 team reporters for an early surprise, and Rob Demovsky highlighted that the Packers are averaging 64.5 rushing yards per game (last in the NFL) and 3.3 yards per carry (29th). While improvement might come, the outlook is clouded by the offensive line’s injuries and running back Josh Jacobs remaining on the commissioner exempt list with no return timetable. Green Bay’s top rusher is MarShawn Lloyd with 57 yards on 19 carries, and other backs have struggled as well. Demovsky also points to Zach Bako-Bewele being out for the season after a Week 2 patellar tendon tear, with Aaron Banks and Donovan Jennings nursing injuries.