Green Bay Packers Backfield Faces Overhaul in 2024
The landscape of the Green Bay Packers' backfield will undergo significant changes in 2024, marking the end of a notable era for the franchise. For years, the formidable duo of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon provided a stable and dynamic running attack. However, the upcoming season signals a new chapter with both familiar departures and fresh arrivals reshaping the Packers' ground game.
AJ Dillon, who was a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, carved out a notable role over his four seasons with Green Bay. Despite his hard-running style, Dillon faced a setback as he has been placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury with no designation to return. This injury marks a significant blow to both Dillon's career and the Packers' plans.
Over his tenure, Dillon amassed 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries, showcasing his ability to be a workhorse back. However, the 2023 season was less kind to the bruising runner, as he recorded career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry. Dillon finished the season with 613 yards and just two touchdowns on 178 carries, raising questions about his long-term viability as the primary option in the backfield.
Meanwhile, Aaron Jones, a staple of the Packers' offense for years, has found a new home with the Minnesota Vikings. Jones signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the division rivals during the offseason, leaving a notable void in Green Bay. His departure signals a significant transition for the Packers, who must now turn to other options to maintain their rushing attack's effectiveness.
In a move that brings some continuity amidst the changes, Dillon re-signed with the Packers on a one-year, $1.3 million contract. Despite the injury, Dillon's return provides a measure of stability and veteran presence in the backfield. His experience and knowledge of the system will undoubtedly aid in mentoring the newer members of the squad.
To bolster their running game, the Packers made a significant investment in the offseason. They secured the services of Josh Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal. Jacobs, the 2022 rushing champion, brings an elite level of talent and a proven track record to the Packers' backfield. His arrival is expected to immediately elevate the team's ground game and provide a reliable offensive weapon.
Additionally, the Packers looked to the future during the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round. Lloyd brings fresh legs and youthful exuberance to the backfield, setting up a dynamic one-two punch with Jacobs. His college career showcased his potential, and the Packers are hopeful that he can translate that success to the professional level.
As the 2024 season approaches, the Packers' backfield faces a transformative period. The blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers creates an intriguing storyline for fans and analysts alike. The challenges posed by Dillon's injury and Jones' departure are significant, but the acquisitions of Jacobs and Lloyd provide a hopeful outlook.
With training camp and preseason underway, all eyes will be on how the new backfield synergy develops. The pressure will be on head coach Matt LaFleur and his coaching staff to seamlessly integrate these changes and extract the best potential from the revised squad. For the Packers, the 2024 season is shaping up to be a fascinating narrative of adaptation and evolution in their quest for success.