The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for a transformative season come 2024, with significant changes set to shape the team's backfield dynamics. This upcoming shift marks the end of an era defined by the formidable duo of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon, who have reliably led the ground game for several years.
A New Chapter Begins
AJ Dillon, a second-round pick from the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a cornerstone of the Packers' rushing attack. Over his four seasons with the team, Dillon amassed an impressive 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. However, 2023 proved challenging for the running back, who recorded career-low averages of just 3.4 yards per carry, finishing the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries. This downturn in performance was further compounded by a neck injury that has placed Dillon on injured reserve, with no designation to return.
The Packers, clearly in a rebuilding phase, have re-signed Dillon on a one-year, $1.3 million contract. This deal indicates the team’s cautious optimism about Dillon’s potential to bounce back while they explore other options to reinvigorate their running game.
Aaron Jones' Departure
In a significant offseason move, Aaron Jones, another pivotal player in the Packers' backfield saga, signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings. Jones’ departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the Packers, who must now adapt to life without one of their most dynamic offensive weapons. Jones' move to a divisional rival like the Vikings adds an extra layer of intrigue to the NFC North race.
New Faces in the Backfield
To fill the substantial void left by these changes, the Packers have made strategic acquisitions. In the 2024 NFL Draft, they selected USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round. Lloyd brings a fresh burst of energy and potential to the team, and there is considerable anticipation surrounding his integration into the Packers' offensive schemes.
However, the most headline-grabbing acquisition is undoubtedly that of Josh Jacobs. The Packers secured Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal this offseason. Jacobs, who was the 2022 rushing champion, is expected to become the new centerpiece of the Packers' running game. His ability to dominate the ground game and his proven track record position him as a potential game-changer for the team.
Josh Jacobs' addition to the squad heralds a significant upgrade, and the Packers’ management is hopeful that he will provide the consistency and explosiveness needed to elevate the team's overall performance. Combining Jacobs' prowess with the fresh legs of MarShawn Lloyd and a hopefully rebounding AJ Dillon, the Packers are set to deploy a multifaceted rushing attack in 2024.
The Road Ahead
With these changes, the Green Bay Packers are clearly signaling a strong intent to revitalize their backfield. While Aaron Jones' departure will undoubtedly be felt, the dual strategy of incorporating fresh talent through the draft and securing a proven star like Josh Jacobs points to a thoughtful and proactive approach to team building.
As the 2024 season looms, fans and analysts alike will be watching keenly to see how these new additions gel with the existing squad and whether they can propel the Packers back to the forefront of NFL competitiveness. The reshaped backfield certainly promises an exciting, perhaps unpredictable, season ahead.