Here’s how the Green Bay Packers might release $48 million running back Aaron Jones if the two sides can’t agree on a new contract.
If the Packers and Aaron Jones cannot reach an agreement on a restructured contract, the latter may be released. The Packers are hoping Jones will accept a wage cut ahead of the 2024 season. Green Bay met with Jones’ agent to discuss his contract negotiations, hoping for a modification. Both are in talks to guarantee Jones continues to get fair pay while with the Packers.
If the two sides cannot reach an agreement on free agency, Green Bay will likely cut relations with Jones. He is entering the final year of a four-year, $48 million contract. Jones is expected to earn a base salary of $11 million with a $17.6 million cap hit. Despite missing six games due to injury, the former Pro Bowler finished the season strong.
Jones had five consecutive 100-yard rushing performances, including 118 yards and three touchdowns in an upset playoff triumph over the Cowboys. This is worth seeing because Jones has a bright future in Green Bay, but money is an issue. The chemistry he has in Green Bay could be irreplaceable. Green Bay was also quite good across the board after a 3-6 start, finishing with a 6-2 run.
According to a rumor, the Packers are unlikely to re-sign running back A.J. Dillion this offseason. He’ll be an unrestricted free agent, and the odds aren’t in his favor. Dillon only managed 613 rushing yards on 178 carries, but he also had 22 grabs for 223 receiving yards and two touchdowns. However, he might still help a team’s depth chart on a cheap contract.
Green Bay Packers Could Release $48 Million Running Back Aaron Jones
The Packers could need more star power at running back.
Jordan Love, the franchise quarterback, may have contributed significantly to the running back position’s consistency. Last season, the first-year starter threw 20 touchdown passes and one interception in a nine-game stretch following their 3-6 start. During his playoff victory over the Cowboys, the Packers performed admirably in terms of running. Love, on the other hand, kept the momentum going by throwing touchdown passes and posting a near-perfect passer rating.
So the Packers could be in danger if they are unable to keep Jones for next season. Jones has been crucial to the Packers offense’s success, but if they are unable to re-sign him, they may seek elsewhere. The NFL Draft is one option, but how optimistic are they that the same running back they select will start in Week 1? To revitalize the position, the Packers would most likely need to bring in some star power.
Derrick Henry, Josh Jacobs, and Saquon Barkley are among the top free agency running backs expected to enter the market this year. If they cannot afford the top prospects, they may go for someone less expensive. According to reports, the Packers may attempt to extend quarterback Jordan Love. Jones may be on his way out, but if he does, he will have clubs on his radar.
Potential destinations for Jones
The Dallas Cowboys might benefit from some star power. Tony Pollard will not be franchised, therefore the Cowboys are likely to pursue him. However, the Chargers might use a running back after deciding not to franchise tag Austin Ekeler. Jm Harbaugh and his new coaching staff may have a different mentality, but Jones may complement standout quarterback Justin Herbert.
The Ravens could be another team in need of a running back. Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins are both expected to enter the free agent market this month, so they may part ways. Jones is more of a pass receiver, and he might help Lamar Jackson on toss or play action passes.
