KFFL.com Breaks Down Packers RB Battle

Posted by Matt Loede on August 5th, 2007 filed in Opinions

Vernand Morency vs. Brandon Jackson | Green Bay Packers

The departure of Ahman Green left the Packers’ running back situation in a state of disarray. While Green was not the player he had been several seasons ago, he was nevertheless the clear No. 1 running back on a team that appeared to have a surplus of mostly unknown, and unproven, running backs waiting in the wings.

Morency (knee) appeared the early favorite to assume the No. 1 role in Green Bay. However, he suffered a knee injury July 30 and could miss four weeks. Aside from an excellent home game against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 8, Morency has rarely demonstrated enough power or speed to inspire confidence in Packer fans and fantasy owners.

Jackson is a product of the University of Nebraska, the same football program that produced Green. He is an intriguing prospect and a solid fit for the Packers’ zone-blocking scheme. With Morency currently sidelined due to a knee injury, Jackson should see some significant playing time this preseason and, if he plays well, he may even steal the No. 1 running back spot by the start of the season. For now, consider both Morency and Jackson to be No. 4 running backs heading into the 2007 NFL season, with both having No. 3 potential; Jackson may have the edge in that department because of the time Morency may miss.

PROJECTED WINNER: The team could use a committee approach, but watch Morency’s injury carefully. If he recovers soon, he should assume most of the rushing duties early on, but Jackson could gradually take on more responsibilities as the season progresses.