We’ve been singing the praises of Aaron Jones all offseason, largely because of new run-heavy HC Matt LaFleur. Yet, at the 2019 NFL Combine, LaFleur poured some cold water on our enthusiasm. Citing the “beating” RBs take, LaFleur said, “any time in today’s NFL you need multiple backs…if you have multiple backs that can get it done, I definitely think that’s the way, you want to go about your business just to take kind of the load off those guys.” This indeed suggests a committee will remain in Green Bay, and caps Jones’ usage ceiling.
Still, don’t completely freak out. LaFleur’s top back has gotten 15+ touches in 87.5% of his games. Meanwhile, Jones has thrived with this number. In his 8 games with at least 15+ touches, Jones has netted 145 touches (24 rec), 883 YFS, and 9 TDs. Over a full season, this equates to a 290 touch (48 rec), 1766 YFS, and 18 TD pace or 308 FPs. This would have trailed only Todd Gurley, Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, and Alvin Kamara in 2018. Overall, this offense will be far more ground-centric than any Packers attack in recent memory. The volume should be there still.
Let’s just pray LaFleur considers Jones the top-guy. Personally, we feel Jones fits the zone-blocking and screen-heavy offense to perfection. But Williams, who should now be on all “Penny Stock” radars, is fantastic in protection and a capable receiver in his own right. With these new usage question marks, Jones falls from 20 to 30 overall behind surer volume bets.
