According to NFL.com, the Green Bay Packers have signed running back Josh Jacobs and released running back Aaron Jones.
The NFL's free agency period opened at noon, and right in the middle of a flurry of activity, the Packers, in a somewhat ruthless move, opted to trade the 29-year-old Jones for the 26-year-old Jacobs.
Jones took a huge hit last year, missing six games due to various injuries, and his productivity was at its lowest in six years. However, Jacobs himself also had a down year, missing three games. Both backs had a much improved 2022 season, but Jacobs was nearly prolific that season, leading the league in rushing yards and gaining over 2,000 yards from scrimmage.
Packers sign RB Josh Jacobs. (via @lap sheet + @tompelissero) pic.twitter.com/ethxQZUDrx
— NFL (@NFL) March 11, 2024
The Pack is clearly betting on Jacobs to return to form in 2022.
Jones, on the other hand, likely still has something left in him and could be a great fit for our Giants, who just lost star running back Saquon Barkley to the division rival Eagles.
After reaching an agreement with free agent running back Josh Jacobs today, the Packers notified running back Aaron Jones that they will release him, according to sources. Jones will now become a free agent. pic.twitter.com/KsZAfhl5lW
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 11, 2024
I feel sorry for Jones, who has been an elite producer for years past. 2020 Pro Bowler guided In 2019, he had 16 touchdowns, which led the league. His 5,940 career rushing yards rank ninth among active running backs. However, the difference between him and Jacobs is less than 400 yards and two fewer seasons. (Related article: Star QB is reportedly making a major move to a new franchise)
You can't blame Green Bay for bringing in fresh legs, and you can't blame them for cutting ties with Jones and reaching his $17 million cap hit. Fortunately for Jones, it doesn't look like he'll languish on the public market for long.
Aaron Jones already has suitors. This can happen quickly.
— Diana Russini (@DMRussini) March 11, 2024
The star running back “already has a suitor,” The Athletic's Deanna Russini reports.