The Packers are set to finalize a deal with running back Josh Jacobs, reportedly worth $48 million over four years, with insider information from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. The contract includes a $12.5 million signing bonus, and Jacobs is slated to earn $14.8 million in the first year, according to Pelissero.
However, this acquisition spells the end for Aaron Jones in Green Bay. Rapoport and Pelissero confirm that Jones, a veteran with seven years under his belt in Green Bay and three seasons surpassing 1,000 rushing yards, will be released. Despite his contributions, Jones faced a significant cap hit of $17.575 million for 2024, exacerbated by a season plagued with injuries where he missed six games. Although discussions for a new deal took place this year, no agreement was reached, prompting the Packers to part ways with him.
The arrival of Jacobs, who led the NFL in rushing yards and scrimmage yards in 2022 and earned a first-team All-Pro nod, signals a shift in Green Bay’s backfield strategy. Despite a slightly subdued performance in 2023 due to missing four games, Jacobs remains a formidable force, boasting an ability to turn short gains into substantial yardage and being adept at catching passes out of the backfield.
The Packers are banking on Jacobs to rejuvenate their ground game, especially after the efficiency displayed by Jones when healthy. With Jacobs, they hope to maintain a similar level of offensive prowess while potentially getting younger and more cost-effective at the position. However, the departure of Jones leaves the Packers thin at running back, especially with AJ Dillon currently a free agent.
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