Aaron Jones' Journey: From Green Bay to Minnesota
Aaron Jones, a name synonymous with Green Bay Packers' recent history, has made the surprising move to join the Minnesota Vikings. With his departure, the Packers not only lost a stellar running back but also a significant leader who stepped in after the departure of quarterback Aaron Rogers. Jones filled the void Rogers left, emerging as a key figure both on and off the field.
Reflecting on his time with the Packers, Jones’ impact was felt deeply within the team. Jordan Love, the Packers’ current quarterback, spoke highly of him, saying, "He's the total package right there. I love Aaron Jones. He brings a huge spark to the team just the way he carries himself, the way he handles his business and shows up ready to work every day. I can't say enough about him." Love's words underscore the invaluable presence Jones had within the locker room.
The numbers back up the praise. Jones had a record-breaking performance against the Dallas Cowboys in January, rushing for 118 yards and scoring three touchdowns on 21 carries. His remarkable effort helped secure a 48-32 playoff win for the Packers. It's feats like these that cemented Jones as a critical component of the Packers’ offense, contributing significantly to their success over the years.
Jones' accolades include being the No. 3 rusher in Packers history with 5,940 rushing yards, a remarkable statistic for someone drafted in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He was accompanied in that draft class by Jamaal Williams and Devante Mays, picked in the fourth and seventh rounds, respectively. Together, they formed a dynamic backfield trio, adding depth and versatility to the Packers' offensive strategies.
However, Jones' journey in the NFL hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2018, he faced a two-game suspension for driving with marijuana in his body. Jones himself reflected on this difficult period, stating, "I was so embarrassed after it happened. They say you represent the G at all times, and I hadn't held up my part of that. I felt like I'd let everyone down who gave me a chance as a fifth-round pick." Despite the setback, the Packers stood by him. "The Packers had my back. Their mentality was, 'This mistake isn't you. It's only you if you don't learn from it.' They made sure I walked around our building with my head held high, even when I was feeling really low," Jones recounted.
Tragedy also struck when Jones' father passed away due to COVID-19 complications. The outpouring of support from the Packers' organization, including head coach Matt LaFleur, general manager Brian Gutekunst, and running backs coach Ben Sirmans, who attended the funeral, spoke volumes about the family's bond within the team. "To say they didn't have to do that is an understatement, and I know I could never repay them on a football field," Jones emotionally expressed.
As his time with the Packers came to an end, Jones was asked to take a pay cut for the second consecutive season. Despite this, he expressed nothing but gratitude for his tenure with the team. "Thanks for 'betting' on me, riding with me, hashtagging for me, and everything else. Thanks for SEEING me. No G on the helmet Sunday, always one in my heart," he shared, leaving on a note filled with appreciation and respect.
Moving forward, his presence in Minnesota will undoubtedly be felt by both the Vikings and the Packers when they face off. Matt LaFleur, reflecting on Jones' departure, remarked, "Certainly he is one of my favorite players that I've ever had to coach, a guy like that. Just in terms of how he goes about his business. Still got a lot of love for him. Just won't have a lot of love for him when we're playing against him." Jones' legacy in Green Bay is firmly etched, but a new chapter awaits in Minnesota.
As Jones begins this next phase of his career, the echoes of his influence in Green Bay will remain. Dontayvion Wicks succinctly captured Jones' impact, "He's just our fire starter, and we keep the flame going." The Packers will indeed continue to build on the foundation Jones helped lay, while he aims to set new milestones and inspire a new locker room with the Vikings.