Packers Solution to Aaron Jones Contract Drama Isn't So Complicated After All
By Andrew Gullotta
After the Packers surprised everyone by drafting AJ Dillon, many questioned Aaron Jones' future in Green Bay. Jones is on the last year of his rookie contract, and it seems like the team selected Dillon to replace the 2019 Pro Bowler.
When you look more closely at the running back situation for the Packers, it's easy to see that the Packers are in a win-win scenario. Jones seems like he will play and not holdout during the season, so Green Bay can wait and see the results of the 2020 campaign.
Aaron Jones says AJ Dillon has been texting him on top of Zoom calls to try to get a better understanding of the playbook.
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) May 27, 2020
If Dillon has a great year and is able show that he's as good, if not better, than Jones during the season, then the Packers can offer Jones a small contract extension, but be willing to move on from the 2017 third-round pick in favor of the Boston College product.
If Jones takes the next step and becomes an elite running back, while the three-time All-ACC ball carrier is just a complimentary piece, then the Packer would simply sign Jones to the long-term deal he's seeking.
Aaron Jones on drafting AJ Dillon:
— Packer Report (@PackerReport66) May 27, 2020
"I know I have no control over that. Doesn't disappoint me. I know they are bringing in competition to keep the rooms competitive. It's the NFL, you never know what can happen."
Even though this situation looks confusing, a wait-and-see approach for the Packers at the position will produce only positive outcomes in Green Bay.