A New Era for the Packers' Backfield in 2024
The Green Bay Packers are poised for significant changes in their backfield as they head into the 2024 NFL season. For years, the duo of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon has been the backbone of the Packers' running game, providing a formidable one-two punch. However, for fans and analysts alike, the upcoming season promises to be notably different.
AJ Dillon, a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a staple in the Packers' offense. Over his four seasons with the team, Dillon has racked up an impressive 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. Yet, Dillon's career hit a rough patch in 2023, where he recorded career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry and ended the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries. To compound his struggles, Dillon has been placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury, with no designation to return, casting doubts on his future contributions.
Amidst these uncertainties, Aaron Jones, who also formed the core of Green Bay's running game, decided to explore new avenues. Jones signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings during the offseason. His departure marks the end of an era for the Packers' backfield, creating a substantial void that the team needed to fill.
In response, the Packers made strategic moves to rebuild their running game. AJ Dillon, despite his recent challenges, re-signed with the Packers on a one-year, $1.3 million contract. This decision underscores the team's faith in Dillon's potential to rebound and play a pivotal role in the evolving backfield dynamic.
Recognizing the need for fresh talent, the Packers also turned to the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting running back MarShawn Lloyd from USC with the 88th overall pick in the third round. Lloyd's addition injects youth and potential into the roster, offering new dimensions to the Packers' running game.
However, the most significant acquisition for the Packers this offseason came in the form of veteran running back Josh Jacobs, secured on a four-year, $48 million deal. Jacobs, the 2022 rushing champion, brings a proven track record and exceptional skill set to Green Bay. His presence not only addresses the immediate need for a reliable lead back but also places the Packers in a strong position to compete at the highest level.
As the Packers navigate this period of transition, the blend of experienced players like Josh Jacobs and promising newcomers like MarShawn Lloyd suggests a balanced approach to their backfield strategy. The combination of Dillon's potential resurgence and Jacobs' established prowess provides a solid foundation for the team's running game.
Packers fans will undoubtedly miss the familiar sight of Aaron Jones sprinting through defenses, but the franchise's proactive steps indicate a commitment to maintaining a competitive and dynamic backfield. The 2024 season heralds a new chapter for the Packers, with the potential for exciting developments and fresh successes on the horizon.
With training camp and preseason games on the horizon, all eyes will be on how this restructured backfield gels and performs. The Packers' decisions in the offseason have set the stage for a captivating season, filled with anticipation and hope for a strong run in the NFL.