The Green Bay Packers stirred up the football world by signing free agent running back Josh Jacobs and releasing standout Aaron Jones during the start of free agency. This unexpected swap of running backs took even their head coach, Matt LaFleur, by surprise. Despite this unexpected move, the team is hopeful that Jacobs will provide similar production on and off the field as Jones did. With 11 draft picks in hand, the Packers are expected to select one or possibly two running backs when the NFL Draft begins on April 25, significantly changing the makeup of their running back room.
Josh Jacobs, who had a productive 2022 season with 1,653 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, has been a standout player for the Las Vegas Raiders. In his five NFL seasons, Jacobs has accumulated 5,545 rushing yards and 46 rushing touchdowns, making him one of the top running backs entering the draft. Despite a quadriceps injury cutting his 2023 season short, Jacobs is known for his explosiveness, durability, and versatility as a runner, blocker, and pass catcher. The Packers are excited to have Jacobs on their team not only for his playing abilities but also for his character and leadership.
In parting ways with Aaron Jones, the Packers bid farewell to one of their top players in recent memory. Jones, who ranks third in team history with 5,940 rushing yards and fourth in rushing touchdowns, has been a crucial player both on the field and in the locker room. Known for his all-around skills as a runner, receiver, and blocker, Jones earned the respect of his teammates and coaches for his work ethic and leadership qualities. Despite missing seven games in 2023, Jones finished strong with five consecutive 100-yard games, demonstrating his impact on the team during their playoff run.
With five of the first 91 picks in the draft, the Packers have ample opportunities to select a running back to complement Josh Jacobs in the upcoming season. The draft class features several top running backs such as Jonathon Brooks, Trey Benson, and Braelon Allen, who are expected to go in the third and fourth rounds. Other prospects like Blake Corum, Tyrone Tracy, and Audric Estime are projected to be drafted in later rounds. General manager Brian Gutekunst emphasizes the importance of having multiple running backs on the roster, indicating that the position remains crucial despite changes in contracts and value perception.
The uncertain status of the running back room creates anticipation for the upcoming NFL Draft and the Packers’ selections in the running back position. Despite the loss of Aaron Jones, the addition of Josh Jacobs and the potential of drafting promising young backs provide hope for Green Bay’s ground game in the 2024 season. With a strong core of running backs, the Packers aim to solidify their backfield and maintain a competitive running attack to support their offense. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Packers’ moves to enhance their roster for the upcoming season.
