There aren’t many things that the Green Bay Packers know for sure heading into the 2023 season. But, if there is one thing that they will be able to count on, at least offensively, it is their running game.
Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon are a highly regarded duo, ranked as one of the best tandems in the NFL. They have earned that distinction, combining for 1,891 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground in 2022 and adding 87 receptions for 606 yards and five more scores.
That is some prolific production, so it should come as no surprise that Jones and Dillon both found themselves mentioned among the top players at the position in the power rankings that Jeremy Fowler put together at ESPN. He polled executives, coaches and scouts from around the league and while mentioned, surprisingly, Jones was not in the top 10.
He was the first running back mentioned as an honorable mention, likely just missing the cut. A true dual-threat, as he’s dangerous as a ball carrier or split out as a receiver, Jones will be leaned on heavily this season as the focal point of the Packers’ offensive attack.
“He does everything really well, so if you’re looking for that well-rounded back with pass-catching ability, I could see how he’s a top 10,” an AFC scout said. “I’m just not sure he has the special qualities of some of the other backs.”
If Jones can fix the fumbling issues that plagued him at times last season, he could very easily find himself in the top 10 next year. Dillon will be looking to rise in the ranks as well.
The Packers’ bruising running back didn’t make the honorable mentions list but did receive some votes from the people who made up the panel. Getting mentioned at all speaks volumes to how highly regarded Dillon is as no other team had multiple players mentioned.
It would be interesting to see how Dillon would be viewed had he had a backfield to himself on early downs. He has improved in the passing game, but his bread and butter is between the tackles. Nick Chubb, who was No. 1 on the list and Derrick Henry, who came in at No. 5 lead their backfields and neither player makes much of an impact in the passing game.