Packers use 88th Pick on USC's Marshawn Lloyd

© Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports

With the NFL Draft in full swing, the Green Bay Packers made a bold move in the third round, securing the talents of USC's Marshawn Lloyd to bolster their roster.

As the dust settles on the second day of the NFL Draft, Green Bay emerges with a promising addition in Lloyd.

Who is Marshawn Lloyd

Chosen as the 88th overall pick, Lloyd arrives with a wealth of talent and potential, ready to contribute significantly to the Packers' success right from the start. Lloyd was a four-star recruit from Hyattsville, MD who spent his first three seasons with the South Carolina Gamecocks. He transferred to USC for the 2023 season and rushed for 820 yards and nine touchdowns in 11 games for the Trojans.

What is Lloyd's Impact on the Team

Lloyd's arrival enhances the Packers' running back corps, which already boasts considerable depth. Despite the somewhat surprising departure of Aaron Jones to the Vikings in free agency, Green Bay's backfield remains formidable. With the recent signing of Josh Jacobs and the return of AJ Dillon, the Packers are well-positioned in the running game. The addition of Lloyd could indicate a strategic move by the team, particularly considering Jacobs' contract structure, which isn't heavily laden with guarantees.

How Quickly Can Lloyd Contribute

Given Lloyd's explosive athleticism and considerable upside, he's poised to make an impact for the Packers, albeit not immediately. With Green Bay boasting depth at the running back position, Lloyd may not see a significant number of carries in his rookie season. However, to realize his full potential and ascend to a starting role in the future, Lloyd will need to focus on refining his vision on the field. By capitalizing on his athleticism and creating big plays, he has the potential to become a Pro Bowl-caliber starter in the league.

Scouting Lloyd

Marshawn Lloyd showcases impressive speed and creativity on the field, enabling him to elude defenders effectively in open space. His ability to navigate through traffic and find open lanes is accentuated by his knack for making sharp cuts at the right angles. Lloyd also demonstrates a good burst and runs with power, often finishing his runs by falling forward for extra yardage. Notably, he has shown improvement as a blocker, particularly in his senior season at USC.

However, there are areas where Lloyd could further develop. His vision on the field could use refinement, as sometimes his speed and burst cause him to miss potential big plays. Additionally, ball security may be a concern at the next level, warranting attention and improvement. Lloyd's injury history, including ACL injuries in 2022 and 2023, adds a layer of caution but also underscores his resilience and determination to overcome setbacks.