Packers’ embarrassing statistic could lead to end of Matt LaFleur’s tenure

The NFL season has not started the way the Green Bay Packers hoped, and one alarming statistic through four weeks could put additional pressure on head coach Matt LaFleur.

The Packers have more penalty yards per game than rushing yards per game this season — Onyx Odds (@OnyxOdds) October 6, 2026

The Packers have more penalty yards per game than rushing yards per game this season

Despite entering Week 5 with a 2-2 record, Green Bay's running game has struggled to generate consistent production. Through the first four games of the 2026 season, the Packers are averaging more penalty yards per game than rushing yards, with 86.0 penalty yards compared to just 58.0 rushing yards per contest.

That imbalance has become one of the team's biggest concerns as Green Bay prepares for a crucial divisional matchup.

Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (32) runs with the ball as the New York Jets defend during a game at MetLife Stadium, Sep 20, 2026, East Rutherford, NJ, USA.

Some of the Packers' problems on the ground can be attributed to the absence of Josh Jacobs, their top running back. Jacobs is currently unavailable while dealing with off-field legal issues stemming from misdemeanor charges of battery and criminal damage to property.

Without Jacobs, Green Bay has relied on MarShawn Lloyd, Kaleb Johnson and Chris Brooks to carry the rushing workload. However, none of the three has recorded a rushing touchdown through the first four games.

The Packers did show some improvement in Week 4, rushing for a season-high 86 yards during their 17-14 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, the overall numbers remain a concern for a team hoping to establish a more balanced offense.

The struggles on the ground have also placed more attention on LaFleur, who has been tasked with getting the offense back on track. While the Packers are still above .500, continued issues could increase pressure on the longtime head coach.

Following the Week 4 victory, LaFleur delivered a pointed message to his running backs when discussing ball security. "I think a great teacher is the bench," he said, emphasizing the importance of protecting the football.

Green Bay will have an immediate opportunity to address some of its offensive problems when the Packers host the division-rival Chicago Bears on Sunday.

Chicago enters Week 5 with a 3-1 record, making the matchup an important early-season test for Green Bay. A stronger rushing performance could help the Packers regain momentum, while another disappointing showing would only increase questions surrounding the team and its head coach.