PACKERS UPDATES: An NFL insider discloses Matt LaFleur’s ultimate choice to start 25-year-old star running back Aaron Jones in place of Aaron Jones.
The Green Bay Packers made a statement this past off-season. By trading Aaron Rodgers and not re-signing multiple long-time veterans, Green Bay ushered in a new era. Jordan Love and the numerous young weapons that surround him. Many of whom have shown great promise in this league already.
One position, however, that the Packers will need to start thinking long-term about is running back. Of course, Aaron Jones is one of the best players on the entire team and is beloved by nearly all Packers fans. His age (29), recent injuries, and 2024 cap hit (17M) has cast doubt as to whether or not he will be on the team next year. If the team does in fact decide to move on from Jones, there is one name who could come in and try to replace his production.
The Green Bay Packers Named Top Candidate For Star 25-Year-Old NFC Rival Running Back
Joe Tansey of Bleacher Report highlighted what this would mean:Antonio Gibson has flown under the radar of most NFL fans during his four-year career.
For the Washington Commanders, the 25-year-old established himself as a valuable third-down back, and he may be among the top-tier running backs available to free agents.
Given that it already has Chris Rodriguez and Brian Robinson on its roster and cannot afford to spend more money on a running back when it needs to make improvements throughout the roster, Washington might be willing to forgo re-signing Gibson.
Green Bay could swap Dillon for Gibson in free agency to have a true third-down back support Aaron Jones.
Gibson caught over 40 passes in each of the last three seasons and he has a 1,000-yard rushing season on his resume from 2021.
He would signed to primarily thrive in the passing game, but Gibson could also fill in for Jones when necessary and not allow the Packers offense to miss a beat.
Are the Packers Planning to Invest in Running Backs During the Off-Season?
The last time the Packers invested heavily into the running back position was the 2020 NFL Draft when they selected A.J. Dillon in the second round. With Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon’s status up in the air moving forward, the 2024 off-season seems like a perfect time for the team to think long-term at the position.
If there isn’t a running back prospect in the draft they fall in love with, targeting a proven young running back in free agency would make a lot of sense.
