The Green Bay Packers shocked fans on Monday by releasing longtime running back Aaron Jones after he refused to take a 50% pay cut. The Pro Bowler, who had been with the team for seven years, has been a key player in Green Bay’s recent success, contributing to over 8,000 yards from scrimmage during his tenure.
Despite his release, Jones may not be without a team for long. According to The Athletic, the Minnesota Vikings are interested in signing the 29-year-old for the 2024 season. Known for his efficiency and ability to break tackles, Jones has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards three times and has been a valuable asset to the Packers alongside young quarterback Jordan Love.
Jones was set to make $12 million in 2024 before his release, making him one of the highest-paid running backs in the league. The Packers wasted no time in finding his replacement, signing former Las Vegas Raiders standout Josh Jacobs to a lucrative four-year, $48 million deal.
Meanwhile, the Vikings have recently parted ways with their 2023 starter Alexander Mattison and are considering third-year reserve Ty Chandler as their top ball-carrier option. However, adding a player of Jones’ caliber could provide a significant boost to their running game. If signed, Jones could potentially split carries with Chandler and create a formidable rushing attack for the Vikings in the upcoming season. Stay tuned to see where Jones lands next as free agency continues to shake up the NFL landscape.
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