MarShawn Lloyd, rookie running back for the Green Bay Packers, is facing a new challenge in his debut season after being diagnosed with appendicitis, which delays his return to the field.
Lloyd has been on injured reserve since September 17 due to an ankle injury, limiting him to just one game played this year. In that game, during the Packers’ victory over the Indianapolis Colts, Lloyd rushed for 15 yards on six carries.
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He just returned to practice, and Lloyd is back in the hospital
The USC product, selected by the Packers in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, was eager to return to the team and had started practicing earlier this week. However, before he could resume playing, he began experiencing abdominal pain, prompting him to visit the team doctors.
According to Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, the doctors sent him to the hospital for further tests.
“They sent him to the hospital, and sure enough, that’s what it is,” LaFleur explained, confirming the appendicitis diagnosis.
This new setback is a significant delay in Lloyd’s recovery, which was already hindered by his ankle injury. Despite the bad news, LaFleur remained optimistic about Lloyd’s recovery.
“He’ll rebound. I’m confident in that. That’s what I told him. But it is a shame, certainly,” the coach said on Friday.
LaFleur is confident that Lloyd will fully recover and contribute to the team in the future, although this setback will extend his time off the field.
In his only game this season, Lloyd showed promise, but his participation has been limited. The Packers, who selected Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the draft, still believe in his potential despite these challenges.
During his college career, Lloyd played his final season at USC after spending time at South Carolina between 2021 and 2022.
The other injuries the Packers need to cover
Meanwhile, the team is also dealing with other significant injuries ahead of their upcoming game against the Chicago Bears.
Rookie guard Jordan Morgan has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury, while defensive lineman Colby Wooden (shoulder) is doubtful. Cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) and safety Evan Williams (hamstring) are both listed as questionable for the game.
Despite these injuries, the Packers (6-3) remain contenders in the NFC, and fans are hopeful that, over time, players like Lloyd will return to help strengthen the offense.
