Changes Afoot in Green Bay Packers Backfield for 2024
The Green Bay Packers are on the cusp of a significant transition in their backfield as they head into the 2024 NFL season. For years, the formidable duo of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon has powered the Packers' ground game, but much has changed over the offseason, altering the team's dynamics and strategy moving forward.
AJ Dillon, a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a mainstay in the Packers' offensive plans since his arrival. Over the course of four seasons, Dillon has amassed 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. Despite his consistency and contributions, the 2023 season marked a noticeable downturn in his performance. Dillon ended the season with career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry, totaling 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries. This dip in productivity was compounded by a neck injury that landed him on injured reserve without a designation to return, thus striking a significant blow to the team’s depth at the running back position.
The offseason further shook up the Packers' backfield configuration. Longtime running back Aaron Jones, known for his versatility and explosive plays, departed Green Bay, signing a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings. This move ends Jones' productive tenure with the Packers and adds a new dimension to the Vikings' offensive schemes.
Despite injury setbacks, AJ Dillon's ties with the Packers remain intact, at least for another year. Dillon has re-signed with the team on a one-year, $1.3 million contract. However, the Packers were not content with merely re-signing Dillon. They made a significant move to bolster their running attack by securing Josh Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal. Jacobs, who was the NFL's rushing champion in 2022, brings his elite pedigree to the Green Bay roster, promising to inject fresh vigor and capability into the team’s running game.
Additionally, the Packers utilized their 2024 NFL Draft picks to further reinforce their backfield. With the 88th overall pick in the third round, the team selected MarShawn Lloyd, a promising running back out of USC. Lloyd is expected to contribute immediately as he integrates into the Packers’ system, potentially forming a dynamic partnership with Jacobs and Dillon.
The decisions reflect a concerted effort by the Packers' front office to ensure the team's running game remains potent and resilient, even in the face of roster changes and player injuries. The new combination of proven talent and fresh prospects signals a clear departure from the past while aiming to preserve and enhance the team's offensive efficacy.
This new era for the Packers' backfield will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, eager to see how these changes will manifest on the field. With a blend of experienced veterans and enthusiastic newcomers, the Packers are positioning themselves for a compelling and competitive 2024 season.