Packers Running Backs Preview
After a disappointing season by Eddie Lacy, and a very good season by James Starks, the Packers seem to have the makings for a very good 1-2 punch in the backfield. Here are the running backs and full backs on the Packers roster.
#22 FB Aaron Ripkowski (2)
#27 RB Eddie Lacy (4)
#34 RB Brandon Burks (Rookie)
#38 RB John Crockett (1)
#40 FB Alstevis Squirewell (Rookie)
#44 RB James Starks (7)
#46 RB Brandon Ross (Rookie)
I believe there are four spots up for grabs in the backfield this season, and three of them are pretty certain. Especially after fourth year pro Eddie Lacy apparently met head coach Mike McCarthy's request of losing weight this offseason, he is likely to be headed for the starting job. James Starks is also a virtual lock, after getting re-signed on top of having arguably his most productive season last year. Finally, second-year man Aaron Ripkowski looks to take over as the lone fullback on the roster after the longtime Packer and fan favorite John Kuhn was not re-signed. Hopefully, Ripkowski learned a lot from Kuhn and can fill-in without much notice of Kuhn's absence.
The fourth and final spot I believe to be reserved for the offensive backfield belongs to RB John Crockett, who has shown flashes last season and is heavily hyped at this point. Then again, the hype was there last season as well and the incumbent Alonzo Harris made the roster instead (a move few honestly saw coming). Harris was released for bringing down Lacy, and the job is for sure Crockett's to lose. RB Brandon Ross and Brandon Burks are likely to be a practice squad candidates, and have an outside chance on making the roster. Squirewell is likely to be one of the first cuts, and I believe his purpose on the team is fullback depth.
So, here are the four Packers offensive backs making the roster: Eddie Lacy, James Starks, Aaron Ripkowski and John Crockett
