Brooks' IR move reshapes Packers' backfield ahead of Bears clash

Key points

• Chris Brooks was placed on injured reserve on Oct. 10, 2026, after suffering an ankle injury in Week 4.
• Brooks will miss at least four games and is eligible to return to the active roster in Week 9 against the New England Patriots.
• Pierre Strong Jr. was elevated from the practice squad to the active roster on Oct. 8 to replace Brooks.
• The Packers' current running back rotation includes Pierre Strong Jr., MarShawn Lloyd, and Kaleb Johnson.
• Josh Jacobs remains on the NFL commissioner's exempt list, with the league still deciding on a potential suspension.
• The Packers have an open roster spot and are practicing receiver Savion Williams, who is designated to return from IR, with a potential activation in Week 6.

Background

This move follows a series of recent roster adjustments for the Packers, including the signing of linebacker Jack Dingle to the practice squad on Oct. 8. The team's running game has struggled, ranking last in the NFL in rushing yards per game and 31st in yards per carry through four games. The injury to Brooks, who had not fumbled this season, adds to concerns about ball security, as both MarShawn Lloyd and Kaleb Johnson have fumbled twice this season. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Josh Jacobs, who remains on the commissioner's exempt list as the NFL decides whether to suspend him.

How outlets are covering it

Acme Packing Company and PackersNews.com both reported the IR placement of Chris Brooks, noting his role as the team's primary pass protector and his 4.7-yard average. PackersNews.com emphasized that Brooks had not fumbled this season, unlike Lloyd and Johnson. Sports Illustrated focused on Pierre Strong Jr.'s potential to secure a critical role, highlighting his experience and LaFleur's comments about his readiness. The official Packers press release confirmed the transaction and provided detailed stats for Strong, including his 46 games played and 99 carries for 499 yards in previous seasons. All sources agreed on the current rotation of Strong, Lloyd, and Johnson, but Sports Illustrated suggested that Strong could have a more significant role than just a reserve, given the team's struggles with ball security and rushing efficiency.

Why it matters

The IR placement of Chris Brooks and the elevation of Pierre Strong Jr. are significant for the Packers' offensive strategy, particularly as they prepare for a Week 5 rivalry game against the Chicago Bears. The team's running game has been a point of concern, ranking last in the NFL in rushing yards per game. The addition of Strong, who has experience and has been praised by coach Matt LaFleur, could provide a much-needed boost to the offense. Additionally, the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Josh Jacobs' status adds another layer of complexity to the team's backfield planning. The Packers' ability to manage these roster moves and maintain offensive efficiency will be crucial as they navigate the rest of the season.

What to watch

The Packers are expected to make a decision on activating receiver Savion Williams from injured reserve in Week 6, as they have an open roster spot. The team will also continue to evaluate the performance of Pierre Strong Jr., MarShawn Lloyd, and Kaleb Johnson in the upcoming games, particularly the Week 5 matchup against the Chicago Bears. The NFL is expected to make a decision on Josh Jacobs' suspension status in the near future, which could further impact the running back rotation. Chris Brooks is eligible to return to the active roster in Week 9 against the New England Patriots, assuming his recovery progresses as expected.