LAFLEUR BANS BACKFLIPS FOR INJURED PACKERS PLAYERS

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has instructed running back MarShawn Lloyd and wide receiver Christian Watson to stop performing backflip celebrations during training camp. Lloyd confirmed the directive after a practice session, stating that LaFleur told him the celebrations posed an injury risk. Lloyd said the coach gave the same instruction to Watson. Lloyd explained that he had begun the backflips to encourage celebration within the running back group, which he felt was less animated than the receivers.

Lloyd has played in only one game since being drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL draft and missed the entire 2025 season owing to multiple injuries including hamstring strains, appendicitis, and damage to his ankle, calf and groin. Watson played in 10 games last season but missed the first seven after sustaining a Grade 3 ACL tear in January 2025 and has experienced multiple injury setbacks throughout his career. Lloyd acknowledged LaFleur's reasoning, stating that he has performed backflips for a long time but accepting the restriction as part of staying healthy.

Lloyd said he initially chose backflips because he could not perform the dance celebrations used by other players on the team. The directive reflects LaFleur's concern about protecting players with histories of injury during the off-season training period. Both players are competing for significant roles in the Packers' backfield and receiving corps as the team prepares for the upcoming season.