The landscape of the Green Bay Packers backfield will undergo significant changes in 2024, signaling a transformative era for the team.
End of An Era for Jones and Dillon
For years, the tandem of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon has been synonymous with the Green Bay Packers' running game. Dillon, a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, and Jones have provided a robust offensive backbone for the Packers. However, 2024 marks the end of this era, as significant shifts occur in their lineup.
Following a neck injury that placed AJ Dillon on injured reserve without a designation to return, the Packers find themselves without one half of their veteran running back duo. Aaron Jones, on the other hand, signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings in the offseason, leaving the Packers' backfield to restructure and seek new leadership.
Dillon's Journey and 2023 Struggles
Dillon's journey with the Packers has been notable. Over four seasons, he amassed 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. Despite his efforts, Dillon's performance in 2023 saw a decline, as he recorded career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry, culminating in 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries. This downturn in Dillon's production, coupled with his injury, has forced the Packers to rethink their strategy moving forward.
New Faces in the Packers' Backfield
In response to these changes, the Packers took proactive steps during the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round. Lloyd brings fresh talent and potential to the team, offering promise for the future.
Moreover, the Packers have made a significant acquisition by securing Josh Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal this offseason. Jacobs, the 2022 rushing champion, is poised to bring a new level of dynamism and experience to the Packers' running game, providing a strong foundation around which the team can build.
Reshaping the Offense
With these additions, the Packers' backfield is set to see a considerable transformation. The blend of seasoned expertise from Jacobs and fresh talent from Lloyd creates a balanced and versatile running attack, aiming to rejuvenate the Packers’ offense and adapt to the changing landscape of the NFL.
Though AJ Dillon has re-signed with the Packers for a one-year, $1.3 million contract, his future contributions remain uncertain due to his injury. As the Packers integrate new players and adjust their strategies, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how this restructured backfield performs in the coming season.
The 2024 season will indeed be a pivotal one for the Green Bay Packers, as they navigate the departure of a long-standing duo and usher in a new era of running backs looking to leave their mark on the storied franchise.