Cheesehead
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- Mar 19, 2019
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Of course, the backfield was a big reason the Packers were able to navigate the loss of three-time Pro Bowler Davante Adams (two games) and No. 2 receiver Allen Lazard (four games) so smoothly. In Adams' absence, for example, both Jones and Jamaal Williams took on expanded roles in the passing game.
Since drafting Williams and Jones in the fourth and fifth rounds, respectively, in 2017, the Packers have yet to play a regular-season or playoff game without either running back on the field.
On paper, Dexter Williams is the most logical option to line up in the backfield if Jones doesn't suit up Thursday night. A sixth-round pick out of Notre Dame a year ago, Williams spent all of his rookie season on the Packers' 53-man roster but only saw action in four games, carrying the ball five times for 11 yards.
The 5-foot-11, 212-pound running back didn't make Green Bay's active roster coming out of training camp this year but has been on the Packers' practice squad all season. He was elevated two weeks ago during Green Bay's 35-20 win over Houston, but played only on special teams.
"I love Dex," Rodgers said. "Dex has a really good attitude. He's done a nice job of growing up in the offense and feeling more comfortable with the checks and his responsibilities in pass blocking and route running.
"It seems like he's a little more settled this year and feeling more confident."
Ervin continues to be an intriguing ace in the hole for the Packers' offense. While one of the leading rushers in the country during his senior year at San Jose State in 2015, the 5-foot-10, 192-pound playmaker has been utilized more as a pass-catcher and returner throughout his four-plus NFL seasons.