Last updated: March 12, 2026, 4:26 p.m. CT
GREEN BAY – Emanuel Wilson served as a dependable backup running back for the Green Bay Packers for three seasons, achieving an average of 4.5 yards per carry and scoring seven touchdowns.
However, his next time carrying the ball will be as a member of the Seattle Seahawks.
The Packers chose not to extend a restricted free agent tender to Wilson, and a source confirmed he is set to sign a one-year contract with the Seahawks. NFL Network reported the deal is valued at $2.1 million.
For Wilson to have remained with the Packers, the team would have needed to offer him a one-year deal worth $3.52 million. Since this offer was not made, Wilson officially became a free agent on March 11, free to sign with any team in the league.
While the Packers have re-signed several other players who were eligible for restricted free agency, they opted to part ways with Wilson, despite his proven capability as a backup. His playing style was similar to that of starter Josh Jacobs, suggesting the Packers might be looking for a quicker back who can also contribute significantly to the passing game.
Wilson, who entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2023, participated in 41 games for the Packers, accumulating 1,083 rushing yards on 242 carries and seven touchdowns. He also caught 30 passes for 170 yards and one receiving touchdown.
The Packers will need to bolster their running back corps. While third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd is still a possibility, he has only played in one game over two seasons due to recurring injuries.
Lloyd has struggled with persistent hamstring issues, even after consulting specialists to identify the underlying causes.
Green Bay did re-sign Chris Brooks to a two-year, $4.85 million agreement, but he is primarily seen as a third-down back rather than a true backup. The Packers also have two players who spent time on their practice squad: Pierre Strong and Damien Martinez.
Strong, at 27 years old, has logged 99 career carries but did not receive any opportunities in his three game-day elevations last season. Martinez, 22, was added to the practice squad on December 30 before being signed to the offseason roster.