Packers RB James Starks to miss 4 weeks following surgery, per report

The Green Bay Packers acknowledged over the weekend that backup running back James Starks had undergone surgery on his injured knee. According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the team expects Starks to miss around four weeks while he recovers.

Starks' absence left the Packers with only two available running backs -- Eddie Lacy and Aaron Ripkowski -- for Sunday's game against the Dallas Cowboys. That forced the team to give more snaps to wide receiver Ty Montgomery in the backfield. With Starks likely to miss the rest of the October, Montgomery as well as fellow wideout Randall Cobb could see more time at running back.

Alternatively, Green Bay could promote Don Jackson from the practice squad or sign a free agent for depth behind Lacy. The team previously worked out C.J. Spiller before he signed with the Seattle Seahawks.

In four appearances this season, Starks has rushed 24 times for 42 yards (1.8 yards per carry). He has also caught six passes for 50 yards.