Packers Dodge Bullet as Running Back Avoids Serious Knee Injury

On August 2, 2025, the Green Bay Packers held their annual Family Night practice at Lambeau Field. Prior to the event, head coach Matt LaFleur spoke to the media about the team's recent practices, including a concerning injury scare involving running back Emanuel Wilson.

During the August 1 practice, Wilson crumpled to the ground in the end zone after trying to adjust to a pass from quarterback Jordan Love. Wilson's teammates immediately took a knee as he remained down for several minutes. While he was able to walk slowly inside with a slight limp, Wilson did not return to practice and also missed the Family Night event.

However, LaFleur provided some reassuring news, stating that Wilson had avoided a major knee injury. "It was extremely scary, but I feel like we dodged that one. So that is some really good news," the coach said.

Wilson's health is crucial for the Packers' offense. Last season, his second in the NFL, the undrafted running back emerged as a reliable backup, rushing for 502 yards and 4 touchdowns on 103 carries. His production was a significant boost for the Packers' ground game.

With fellow backup MarShawn Lloyd also dealing with injury issues, the Packers are taking a cautious approach to managing their running back depth as they prepare for the preseason. Tight end Tucker Kraft was also held out of Family Night practice to rest a slight groin injury.

Despite the injury concerns, the Packers' defense continued to make plays, with cornerback Carrington Valentine intercepting a pass from Love during practice. The team is keeping their scheme vanilla ahead of their preseason opener against the New York Jets on August 9.