GREEN BAY, Wis. (NBC 26) — The Packers have released veteran running back Aaron Jones, the team announced Monday.
Green Bay has also agreed to terms with former Raiders running back Josh Jacobs, who is expected to formally sign with the team when the new league year begins on Wednesday. Jacobs is a two-time Pro Bowler and led the league in rushing in 2022.
Jones has averaged five yards per carry over 97 games since being drafted by the Packers in 2017. He finished last season with five consecutive games of 100 rushing yards or more, the longest streak of his career.
“We want to thank Aaron for his unwavering commitment to the Packers and the community over the past seven seasons,” Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst said in a press releases. “It is certainly one of the hardest decisions we’ve had to make in my time with the Packers and not one taken lightly."
"He has not only had a significant impact on the field and in the locker room, but he is one of the most beloved players in the community," Gutekunst added. "We wish nothing but the best for Aaron and his entire family moving forward.”
Jones was due to count $17.6 million against Green Bay's salary cap this season. His release creates $5.2 million in cap savings, according to Over The Cap.
The 29-year-old now becomes a free agent and could sign with any team. He could still return to Green Bay on a new contract.
This is the scenario where Jones tests the market and see if he can find something better than what the #Packers are offering. If he can't, there's a chance he would come back. How the Jacobs signing affects his point of view could determine if he would even consider a return. https://t.co/ryg3e8d7iD
— Tom Silverstein (@TomSilverstein) March 11, 2024
Jones ranks third all-time among Packers rushing leaders with 5,940 yards. Only Ahman Green and Jim Taylor have more yards.
