A New Era for the Green Bay Packers' Backfield in 2024
The Green Bay Packers are poised for substantial changes in their backfield as they head into the 2024 NFL season. For years, Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon have anchored the running game, providing stability and production for the Packers' offense. However, the landscape looks drastically different this year due to a series of significant moves and unfortunate injuries.
AJ Dillon, the bullish runner who was drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a key figure in the Packers' rushing attack. Across four seasons, Dillon accumulated 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries. However, his production waned in 2023, as he recorded career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry and finished the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries. Unfortunately for Dillon and the Packers, this decline in performance was compounded by a neck injury that has now landed him on injured reserve with no designation to return.
As Dillon faces time away from the field due to his injury, the Packers have also seen the departure of Aaron Jones, who signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings during the offseason. Jones has been a stalwart for the Packers since joining the team, and his move to a division rival certainly shifts the dynamic in the NFC North.
To address these changes, the Packers made strategic moves both in the draft and free agency. In the 2024 NFL Draft, they selected USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round, indicating their commitment to strengthening the backfield with fresh talent. Lloyd's college career showcased his potential, and the Packers hope he can bring a new spark to their running game.
The most notable acquisition, however, is Josh Jacobs. Coming off his crowning achievement as the 2022 NFL rushing champion, Jacobs inked a significant four-year, $48 million deal with the Packers this offseason. Jacobs' arrival brings a proven playmaker to Green Bay, capable of shouldering the load and providing the offensive consistency that will be crucial as the team navigates through this transitional phase.
Additionally, amidst the influx of new talent, the Packers also saw AJ Dillon re-sign with the team for a one-year, $1.3 million contract. Despite his recent struggles and injury setbacks, Dillon’s return gives the team a familiar face and a player who, when healthy, can still contribute effectively.
Looking forward, the Packers' restructured backfield will be a mix of seasoned prowess and youthful exuberance. Jacobs is anticipated to lead the charge, bringing his stellar track record and high expectations. Meanwhile, MarShawn Lloyd's development will be closely watched as he transitions from college standout to professional athlete. Lastly, Dillon’s potential comeback from injury adds an additional layer of intrigue to how the backfield will mesh together.
The Packers' revamp signals a clear intention to remain competitive in a challenging NFC North division. The departure of a veteran like Aaron Jones and the uncertainty surrounding Dillon’s health could have spelled trouble, but the proactive signing of a top talent like Jacobs combined with an infusion of young skill in Lloyd provides optimism.
As the 2024 season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how the new composition of the Packers' running game unfolds. The blend of experience and youth aims to reinvigorate the team’s offensive dynamics while maintaining the resilience and versatility that have long been associated with Green Bay's football ethos. With these key changes, it's clear that the Packers are ready for a new chapter, aiming to maintain their competitive edge and continue their storied tradition in the NFL.