The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly close to signing running back Aaron Jones, who was released by the Green Bay Packers on Monday.
That’s according to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, who reports that the Vikings “have agreed a deal” with Jones less than 24 hours after his release from Green Bay. NFL Network is reporting that it’s a one-year deal worth $7 million.
After releasing Alexander Mattison last week the Vikings were looking for reinforcements in the backfield, and Jones immediately becomes the No. 1 runner in a backfield with Ty Chandler as his backup. Chandler outperformed Mattison last season and wound up taking the No. 1 job late in the season.
Jones, 29, had 656 yards and two touchdowns on the ground last season while adding 30 catches for 233 yards and a touchdown. He played in 11 games while battling injuries. What’s hidden in those numbers is how dominant he was late in the season.
According to Pro Football Focus, after returning from injury in Week 15, including his play in the playoffs, Jones led the NFL with 638 rushing yards, 29 missed tackles forced and 5.5 yards per carry.
When healthy, Jones has performed as one of the best running backs in the league. In 2022, Jones averaged 5.2 yards per carry and rushed for 1,121 yards while adding 59 receptions for 395 yards and five touchdowns.
Jones is the sixth reported free-agent signing by the Vikings, joining quarterback Sam Darnold, edge rushers Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard, linebacker Blake Cashman and kicker John Parker Romo.
More to come.
