This season was different for Eddie Lacy, as opposed to his first two years in the National Football League.
The former Alabama standout was Rookie of the Year in 2013, according to the Associated Press, Pro Football Writers of America and SB Nation. He collected back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2013.
Injuries played a role in his career-low numbers, but a poor diet and lack of exercise was also pivotal.
The extra pounds on his 5-foot-11 frame slowed him down at times during huge runs. Packers’ head coach Mike McCarthy tried to provide some motivation by benching him.
Positive results did yield as Lacy’s numbers improved down the stretch (758 yards, three scores); however, his weight remained an issue. He and Green Bay decided to reach out to a fitness guru for help. Tony Horton, creator of P90X, has agreed to help Lacy get in shape for next season.
“My job will be to get the weight off and help him eat better,” Horton told TMZ and SB Nation’s Jason B. Hirschhorn.
He entered the 2013 NFL Draft at 5-foot-10 and weighing 231 pounds. Lacy was clocked at 4.57 seconds at the NFL Combine, showing a good combination of power and quickness.
A strong run game opens up Green Bay’s balanced attack on offense. Horton will look to re-establish Lacy as an NFL force by getting him down to his playing weight this offseason.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
