In a stunning turn of events for the Green Bay Packers, veteran running back Aaron Jones has been released amid contract rumors and the team’s reported agreement with free-agent running back Josh Jacobs. The Packers, known for their commitment to Jones, have opted for a significant overhaul in their running back room ahead of the 2024 NFL season.
The decision to part ways with Jones, who played an integral role in the Packers’ recent postseason success, comes as a surprise to many fans and analysts alike. Jones, at 29 years old, has been a consistent performer, amassing over 1,000 rushing yards three times in his seven-year career and leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns in 2019.
Despite missing six games in the 2023 season due to injuries, Jones showcased his value to the team by delivering crucial performances in the final weeks of the regular season and playoffs. General Manager Brian Gutekunst, just over a month ago, expressed the team’s anticipation of bringing Jones back, citing his on-field impact and influential leadership in the locker room.
However, with the reported addition of Josh Jacobs, the Packers seem poised to shift their focus to a new lead running back. Jacobs, a former All-Pro with the Las Vegas Raiders, brings an impressive resume, having rushed for over 1,600 yards in 2022 and accumulating 5,545 rushing yards in his five-year career. The 26-year-old is expected to take on the feature back duties in Green Bay, providing a dynamic, between-the-tackles option.
The decision to release Jones, along with veteran tackle David Bakhtiari, has freed up around $24 million in cap space for the Packers. This move gives the team flexibility to improve other positions and build a talented roster around their star quarterback, Jordan Love.
Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged the difficulty of parting ways with Jones, praising not only his on-field contributions but also his character and impact on the team’s winning culture. The departure of two longtime Packers is expected to have an emotional impact on both fans and the locker room, underscoring the harsh reality of the NFL as a business.
As the Packers enter a new era with Josh Jacobs leading the backfield, the team’s Super Bowl chances for the upcoming season remain uncertain. The younger Jacobs, known for his combination of speed, agility, and power, aims to fill the void left by Jones and complement the identity of the Packers’ promising offense.
In the aftermath of Jones’ release, the running back market is set to become more competitive, with other notable free agents like Derrick Henry and Austin Ekeler still available. Jones, a sought-after player, is expected to find a new home swiftly, and his departure marks the end of an era in Green Bay. The NFL, true to its nature, continues to deliver surprises and challenges for teams and fans alike.