The landscape of the Green Bay Packers backfield will undergo significant changes in 2024, marking the start of a new era. For years, Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon have been the main running back pair for the team, but a series of offseason moves and injuries will reshape the Packers' rushing attack.
AJ Dillon, drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a fixture in the Packers' offense. However, Dillon was recently placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury and has not been designated to return. This development leaves a substantial gap in Green Bay's ground game, especially considering Dillon's four-season contributions of 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. Despite a career-low average of 3.4 yards per carry in 2023, Dillon's presence will be missed as he finished the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries.
The Packers also experienced a significant change with Aaron Jones, who signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings in the offseason. Jones's departure leaves a void in leadership and production, as he has been a critical component of Green Bay's offense.
In an effort to adapt to these changes, the Packers made strategic moves to bolster their backfield. The team re-signed AJ Dillon to a one-year, $1.3 million contract, solidifying his place on the roster despite his current injury status. Additionally, in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Packers selected USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round. Lloyd is expected to bring fresh talent and potential to the Packers' backfield, providing depth and a new dimension to the offense.
Perhaps the most notable offseason acquisition for Green Bay is the signing of Josh Jacobs, the 2022 rushing champion, to a four-year, $48 million deal. Jacobs, known for his explosive running style and ability to grind out tough yards, is set to be a cornerstone of the Packers' offense. His presence is anticipated to fill the gap left by Jones and eventually support Dillon's return.
With these changes, the Packers are not only adjusting their roster but also preparing for a transformative season in 2024. The combination of re-signing Dillon, drafting Lloyd, and securing Jacobs indicates a proactive approach to maintaining a robust and dynamic backfield, despite the uncertainties brought on by injuries and player movements.
As Green Bay looks ahead to the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how these new and returning players can synergize and drive the team forward. The Packers' backfield changes signal a commitment to evolving their game and ensuring that their ground attack remains a formidable force in the NFL.