The Green Bay Packers are poised for a significant transition in their backfield as they approach the 2024 NFL season. For years, the tandem of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon has been synonymous with the Packers' ground game. However, 2024 marks a new chapter with notable changes to their running back roster.
The End of an Era
Aaron Jones, a cornerstone of the Packers' offense for several seasons, has moved on to new pastures. This offseason, Jones signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings. His departure leaves a substantial void in the backfield that the Packers must address.
AJ Dillon's Return and Setback
On the other hand, AJ Dillon, despite re-signing with the Packers on a one-year, $1.3 million contract, will face his challenges. Dillon was a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and has been a reliable force for Green Bay. Over four seasons, he accumulated 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. Yet, Dillon's performance in 2023 was below expectations, recording career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry, finishing the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries.
Compounding the challenges, Dillon has been placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury, with no designation to return. This setback forces the Packers to look for alternatives to solidify their backfield.
New Acquisitions
The Packers took significant steps in this year's offseason to bolster their backfield. One of the most notable moves was securing Josh Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal. Jacobs, the 2022 rushing champion, brings proven talent and experience that could spearhead the Packers' rushing attack and provide stability amid the roster changes.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, Green Bay further invested in their ground game by selecting USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round. Lloyd's addition emphasizes the Packers' commitment to strengthening their backfield depth and infusing fresh talent capable of contributing immediately.
Looking Forward
As training camp approaches, the Packers' coaching staff will have the task of integrating these new pieces. The combination of a veteran workhorse like Josh Jacobs and a promising rookie in MarShawn Lloyd may offer a dynamic and multifaceted running game. However, the absence of Aaron Jones and the uncertainty surrounding AJ Dillon's health will undoubtedly test the team’s resilience.
The Packers' success in the 2024 season will heavily depend on how quickly and effectively these new acquisitions can adapt to their system. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the team's progress as they usher in this new era for their backfield. While it may be the end of one chapter, the beginning of another holds promise and intrigue for the storied franchise.