Aaron Jones, born on December 2, 1994, in Savannah, Georgia, is one of the premier running backs in the National Football League (NFL). Since joining the Green Bay Packers in 2017, Jones has emerged as a dynamic, multi-faceted threat in both the running and passing games. With his explosive speed, agility, and relentless work ethic, Jones has become a key figure in the Packers’ offense, consistently providing production and versatility.
Early Life and College Career
Aaron Jones grew up in a military family, with his parents both serving in the U.S. Army. Along with his twin brother, Alvin Jones, he developed a strong sense of discipline and responsibility from a young age. The family eventually settled in El Paso, Texas, where Jones attended Burges High School. There, he quickly established himself as a standout athlete, excelling in both football and track.
After high school, Jones attended the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he played for the UTEP Miners football team. Over four seasons (2013-2016), Jones showcased his immense talent and ability to make plays. He rushed for 4,114 yards, becoming UTEP’s all-time leading rusher. His standout senior season in 2016 saw him accumulate 1,773 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, earning him first-team All-Conference USA honors.
NFL Draft and Entry into the Green Bay Packers
Despite his stellar college career, Aaron Jones was considered somewhat of a sleeper prospect in the 2017 NFL Draft. Due to his smaller stature (5’9”, 208 lbs) and the deep class of running backs that year, Jones was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round with the 182nd overall pick. However, Jones quickly dispelled any concerns about his ability to perform at the professional level.
Breakout Performance with the Packers
Jones entered the Packers’ system during a transitional period, with the team looking for a consistent presence in the backfield. He showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season, despite being part of a running back committee, finishing the year with 448 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. His explosive runs and ability to make defenders miss caught the attention of fans and coaches alike.
By his second year in 2018, Jones began to establish himself as the team’s primary running back, averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per carry. Unfortunately, his season was cut short by injury, but he had shown enough potential to be considered the future of the Packers’ backfield.
2019: A Breakthrough Season
The 2019 season marked Aaron Jones’ true breakout campaign. Under new head coach Matt LaFleur, the Packers implemented a more balanced offense, giving Jones the opportunity to shine both as a runner and a receiver. He finished the season with 1,084 rushing yards, 16 rushing touchdowns, and 474 receiving yards with 3 receiving touchdowns, making him one of the most productive running backs in the league.
Jones’ 16 rushing touchdowns tied for the NFL lead, and he became just the third player in Packers history to score at least 20 total touchdowns in a season. His performance was instrumental in leading the Packers to a 13-3 record and an appearance in the NFC Championship Game.
2020 Season: Continued Success and Pro Bowl Recognition
Jones followed up his breakout 2019 season with another stellar year in 2020, proving that his success was no fluke. He rushed for 1,104 yards and 9 touchdowns, while also contributing 355 receiving yards and 2 receiving touchdowns. His ability to impact both phases of the offense made him a key asset for quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the Packers’ high-powered offense.
Jones was named to his first Pro Bowl following the 2020 season, solidifying his status as one of the top running backs in the NFL. His consistent production, coupled with his leadership on and off the field, made him a fan favorite in Green Bay.
Style of Play: Versatility and Explosiveness
One of Aaron Jones’ greatest strengths is his versatility. He is not only an exceptional runner but also a dangerous receiver out of the backfield. His ability to line up in various formations, catch passes, and make plays in space makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Jones possesses elite vision, allowing him to find gaps in the defense and hit the open field with explosive speed.
Additionally, his compact frame and low center of gravity make him difficult to tackle. He excels at breaking arm tackles and has a knack for evading defenders in the open field. Despite not being the biggest running back, Jones is known for his toughness, often fighting for extra yards and making crucial plays in short-yardage situations.
Jones’ ability to contribute in the passing game adds another dimension to the Packers’ offense. His receiving skills allow the Packers to be creative, often lining him up as a slot receiver or running screen plays to capitalize on his speed. His contributions as both a runner and receiver make him one of the most complete backs in the league.
Leadership and Impact Off the Field
Beyond his performance on the field, Aaron Jones is widely respected for his character and leadership. He has been an influential presence in the Packers’ locker room, often serving as a role model for younger players. His work ethic and positive attitude have earned him the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
In 2021, Aaron Jones’ father, Alvin Jones Sr., passed away due to complications from COVID-19. His father was a huge part of his life and career, attending nearly every game and serving as one of his biggest supporters. Aaron’s tribute to his father, including wearing a football necklace with his father’s ashes inside, touched the hearts of many fans and highlighted his emotional connection to his family and football.
Jones is also active in the community, regularly participating in charitable endeavors. He co-founded the A&A All the Way Foundation with his twin brother Alvin, which aims to positively impact the lives of children, military families, and youth sports organizations. Jones’ commitment to giving back has made him a beloved figure both in Green Bay and beyond.
Contract Extension and Commitment to the Packers
In March 2021, Aaron Jones signed a four-year, $48 million contract extension with the Packers, securing his future with the team. The deal reflected the Packers’ belief in Jones as a cornerstone of their offense for years to come. His combination of production, leadership, and consistency made him an invaluable asset, and the extension was a clear signal that Green Bay was committed to keeping him in the fold.
2021-2023: Maintaining Excellence and Team Leadership
Aaron Jones continued to perform at a high level during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Despite splitting carries with fellow running back AJ Dillon, Jones remained a focal point of the Packers’ offense. His ability to make big plays in crucial moments, particularly in the passing game, kept him among the top running backs in the league.
During the 2022 season, Jones surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the third time in his career, finishing the year with 1,121 rushing yards and 7 total touchdowns. His reliability in the backfield provided stability for the Packers’ offense, especially as the team dealt with changes, including the departure of key wide receivers and the eventual transition away from the Aaron Rodgers era.
Legacy and Future Outlook
As of 2023, Aaron Jones continues to be a central figure in the Packers’ offense. His versatility, leadership, and consistent production make him one of the most respected running backs in the NFL. While he has already accomplished a great deal in his career, Jones shows no signs of slowing down and remains focused on helping the Packers compete for championships.
Beyond the individual accolades and statistical milestones, Jones’ greatest impact may be the way he has embodied the spirit of perseverance, humility, and hard work. Whether he is breaking off a long touchdown run, making a key reception, or giving back to his community, Aaron Jones has become the heart and soul of the Packers and a player who represents the best of what the NFL has to offer.
Conclusion
Aaron Jones is more than just a running back for the Green Bay Packers; he is a versatile playmaker, a leader, and a role model both on and off the field. From his humble beginnings in El Paso to becoming one of the NFL’s premier running backs, Jones’ journey is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and love for the game. As he continues to thrive in Green Bay, Jones is cementing his legacy as one of the greats in Packers history and a beloved figure in the world of football.
