The Green Bay Packers' backfield will undergo significant changes in the 2024 season, marking the end of an era for a unit that has relied heavily on Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon in recent years. With Aaron Jones heading to the Minnesota Vikings and Dillon dealing with a neck injury, the Packers will look to new faces to carry the load.
A New Chapter Begins
After years of consistent performance, the Packers' backfield is poised for a major overhaul. AJ Dillon, who has been a cornerstone since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, will not be returning to action anytime soon due to a neck injury that has placed him on injured reserve without a designation to return.
Meanwhile, Aaron Jones made a move within the NFC North, signing a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings during the offseason. This leaves the Packers with an opportunity to rebuild a backfield that has been a strength for the team.
Statistics Reflect an Era
AJ Dillon’s four seasons with the Packers saw him amass 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. However, his productivity waned in 2023, where he recorded career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry. Dillon finished the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries, indicating a decline that may have played a role in the Packers' decision to look towards other options.
In a bid to reinforce their running game, the Packers made strategic moves during the offseason. They invested in the future by selecting USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Lloyd promises to bring fresh legs and new energy to the backfield.
Securing Proven Talent
Additionally, the Packers made a significant acquisition by securing Josh Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal. Jacobs is a proven commodity, having been the 2022 rushing champion. His presence is expected to provide immediate impact and stability to the running game, filling the void left by the departures and injuries.
These moves underscore the Packers' commitment to building a strong running game, ensuring the offense remains balanced and dynamic. The acquisition of Jacobs, in particular, reflects the franchise’s willingness to invest in high-caliber talent to maintain their competitive edge.
Looking Forward
As the Packers prepare for the upcoming season, the backfield changes signify both a challenge and an opportunity. While the departure of familiar faces like Aaron Jones and the injury to AJ Dillon might seem daunting, the infusion of new talent could rejuvenate the team's ground game.
The combination of a promising rookie in MarShawn Lloyd and an established veteran like Josh Jacobs provides a blend of future potential and proven performance. It sets the stage for a backfield that, while different from previous years, could quickly become a cornerstone of the Packers' offensive strategy.
The 2024 season will undoubtedly be a period of transition for the Packers' backfield, but with the strategic moves made thus far, the team appears well-prepared to navigate this new chapter with confidence and optimism.