New Chapter for Packers' Backfield in 2024
The landscape of the Green Bay Packers backfield will undergo significant changes in 2024. For years, Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon have been the dynamic duo powering the Packers' ground game. However, circumstances have led to a reshuffling of the backfield cards, promising Packers fans a new era.
A second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, AJ Dillon has been a mainstay in the Packers' lineup. His powerful running style earned him 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on 597 carries across four seasons. Yet, despite these numbers, Dillon hit a rough patch in 2023, recording career-low averages of 3.4 yards per carry and finishing the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns on 178 carries.
As 2024 dawns, Dillon faces another challenge. He has been placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury, with no designation to return, raising questions about his playing future. This unfortunate turn has prompted the Packers to think ahead and reconfigure their backfield strategy.
Meanwhile, Aaron Jones, who previously shared the backfield duties with Dillon, has taken his talents to the Minnesota Vikings. Jones signed a one-year, $7 million deal in the offseason, marking an end to his era in Green Bay. His departure leaves a significant void that needs filling.
To address these changes, the Packers have made bold moves both in free agency and the NFL Draft. In the 2024 NFL Draft, they selected USC running back MarShawn Lloyd with the 88th overall pick in the third round. Lloyd brings fresh legs and a lot of promise, hoping to carve out a niche for himself in the restructured backfield.
Not stopping there, the Packers also secured the services of Josh Jacobs on a four-year, $48 million deal this offseason. Jacobs, the 2022 rushing champion, brings proven experience and a dynamic presence to the Packers' offense. His arrival aligns with the team's vision of solidifying its ground game and bringing a championship pedigree back to Green Bay.
Interestingly, despite his injury woes, Dillon re-signed with the Packers for a one-year, $1.3 million contract. This move indicates that the team still values his contributions and anticipates a possible return to form, albeit cautiously.
The Packers' approach to retooling their backfield underscores their commitment to maintaining a potent ground attack while navigating the uncertainties posed by injuries and player movements. The combination of fresh talent in MarShawn Lloyd and the established prowess of Josh Jacobs could provide a powerful one-two punch, much like the Jones-Dillon tandem once did.
As the Green Bay Packers prepare for the 2024 season, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how the new backfield chemistry develops. The arrival of Jacobs and Lloyd promises excitement and potential, but much will depend on how seamlessly they fit into the Packers' offensive scheme and how well they can execute under pressure.
One thing is certain: the Packers' backfield in 2024 will be a blend of new energy and seasoned talent, aiming to uphold the high standards set by their predecessors. The Green Bay faithful will be hoping that this new chapter leads to continued success on the field and deep into the postseason.