The Green Bay Packers’ backfield is set for a significant transformation in 2024.
Running backs Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon, who have both played key roles for the Packers since Dillon was drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, could have already played their final games with the team. Dillon has been placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury without the designation for a return, meaning his season is effectively over before it began. Meanwhile, Jones has signed a one-year deal worth $7 million with the Minnesota Vikings this offseason.
This situation is particularly disappointing for Dillon, who had just re-signed with Green Bay for one year at $1.3 million. The 26-year-old running back will now miss the opportunity to compete for a spot in the team’s running back lineup. Over his four seasons with the Packers, Dillon amassed 2,428 rushing yards and scored 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. However, he experienced a drop in performance in 2023, averaging a career-low 3.4 yards per carry, culminating in 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 attempts.
In April, the Packers drafted running back MarShawn Lloyd from USC in the third round and signed 2022 rushing champion Josh Jacobs to a lucrative four-year, $48 million contract during free agency. While there is a possibility for Dillon to make a comeback in 2025, he will spend the entire 2024 season recovering from his injury.