Before we get into the current guy, a quick history lesson—don’t worry, it’s the fun kind. The Packers’ backfield has seen Hall of Famers like Jim Taylor and Paul Hornung, who basically invented the “run angry” philosophy while wearing leather helmets and smoking at halftime.
Then there’s Ahman Green, the guy who made 1,800-yard seasons look as easy as a Sunday brunch. And don’t forget the 1-2 punch of Ryan Grant or the quiet durability of Eddie Lacy, who famously fueled his yardage with Chinese food and optimism.
Today’s starter carries that legacy on his shoulders—and also a pretty solid speed score. The current RB1 is Aaron Jones (though Josh Jacobs has taken the reins in 2026), but whoever wears the “G” is part of a club that’s equal parts grit and glory.
Who’s the Man Now?
As of this season, the starting running back for the Green Bay Packers is Josh Jacobs, a free-agent pickup who brings a bruising style that makes defenders question their career choices. Jacobs is the kind of back who gets stronger as the game goes on—think of him as a pressure cooker that slowly releases rage.
He’s a former rushing champion from his Raiders days, and in Green Bay, he’s found a system that actually commits to the run. That’s rare in modern football, like finding a coffee shop that remembers your name and your order.
But here’s the fun little fact: Jacobs once rushed for over 1,600 yards in 2026, and he did it while leading the league in broken tackles. That’s not just talent; that’s a personal vendetta against the turf.
