There is a lot of things to like about the 2026 Green Bay Packers. Their defense is a turnover machine, getting three interceptions against Drake Maye in Week 9. Their passing offense is also incredibly elite.

Jordan Love, Matthew Golden, and Christian Watson have formed an incredible trio. But there is one glaring issue with this team: Their running game has been incredibly underwhelming.

Even with Josh Jacobs back, this running game is not playing well. So, with that in mind, ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano believes the Packers must upgrade their running game if they want to seriously contend for a Super Bowl this year.

Packers urged to improve their running game

"The Packers must build Jordan Love a running game... Verdict: Not an overreaction," Graziano writes. "... Whether it's a running back, an offensive lineman, a blocking tight end ... whatever."

Graziano believes this Packers team needs to upgrade their running game in a meaningful way at this year's NFL trade deadline. But what does that mean?

That upgrade could simply come by upgrading at running back. Now that Jacobs is set for surgery on a broken finger, it would make a bit more sense to splurge on someone like Jonathan Taylor.

It would cost a lot, but it's the kind of move that could take this team to the next level. Tony Pollard would make sense as a trade target as well, as he'd be a lot cheaper than Taylor while still providing a boost to the backfield.

MORE: Mike Vrabel gives blunt assessment of Christian Gonzalez's struggles

However, if the Packers want to address the running game in another way, adding to the offensive line is worth considering. Landon Dickerson from the Philadelphia Eagles might be the best lineman to consider adding at this year's trade deadline.

A blocking tight end might be the cheapest way for this Packers team to upgrade their running game this season. While this kind of move wouldn't make for the biggest possible addition they could make, it's something worth considering.

The Packers cannot keep relying on this shaky ground game, especially now that Jacobs is banged up. Seeing what this Packers team did against the New England Patriots in Week 9, it's clear they have a championship-caliber defense and passing attack.

If they can figure out the rushing attack, whether it's with a running back, blocking tight end, or offensive line upgrade, it's something Green Bay should strongly pursue at this year's trade deadline.

More NFL news: