The Packers are set to ink a four-year, $48 million deal with running back Josh Jacobs, according to reports from NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. This contract includes a $12.5 million signing bonus, with Jacobs slated to earn $14.8 million in the first year. However, this signing comes at a cost for Green Bay, as they’ve decided to part ways with veteran Aaron Jones.
Jones, who spent seven productive years with the Packers, is being released to make room for Jacobs. Despite Jones’ history of stellar performances, including multiple 1,000-yard seasons and dynamic playmaking abilities, the decision was made due to his hefty $17.575 million cap hit for 2024 and recent injury struggles.
Jacobs, a former first-round pick, showcased his talent by leading the league in rushing yards and scrimmage yards in 2022, earning him first-team All-Pro honors. Although his performance dipped slightly in 2023 due to missed games and a lower yards-per-carry average, the Packers are banking on a resurgence from the young running back.
Known for his ability to find running lanes and break tackles, Jacobs brings a similar skill set to Jones, offering both rushing and receiving threats out of the backfield. With Green Bay’s offense operating more effectively when Jones was healthy and performing well, the hope is that Jacobs can provide a similar impact.
By swapping Jacobs for Jones, the Packers aim to inject youth and cost-effectiveness into their running back position while retaining a versatile playmaker. However, the team now faces depth issues in the backfield, especially with AJ Dillon currently unsigned.
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