During the 2023 offseason, various teams, including the Packers, undertook the task of offloading expensive running back contracts, while others, like Green Bay, engaged in negotiations with veteran starters to reduce their pay. The contract of Aaron Jones, the accomplished running back, extends until 2024, and there are concerns about its escalating cap number, potentially making Jones’ future with the team uncertain.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst appears to be dismissing speculations about Jones leaving Green Bay, asserting that they fully anticipate him being part of the roster in 2024, as reported by The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman. Jones, who has been with the Packers since 2017, accepted a $5 million pay cut in the previous February, accompanied by an $8.52 million signing bonus. This restructuring included the addition of void years to Jones’ deal, reducing his 2023 cap figure to $8.2 million. However, the cap hit is set to rise to $17 million in 2024, potentially prompting the Packers to address the running back’s contract again.
Considering the current contract structure, extending Jones makes sense, as failing to re-sign him before the 2025 league year would result in a $6.6 million dead-money hit. Despite the trend of teams hesitating to extend running backs in their late 20s, the Packers broke from their past approach and signed Jones to a four-year, $48 million deal just before free agency in 2021. The NFL’s recent devaluation of running backs further complicates the situation.
Jones, at the age of 29, faced challenges in the recent season due to MCL and hamstring issues, causing him to miss six games. However, he demonstrated effectiveness when on the field, finishing the season strongly. AJ Dillon, the backup running back, is entering free agency after a lackluster contract year, and with a crowded running back market forming, re-signing Jones becomes crucial for the Packers. Losing Jones would create a significant need, although the running back position is generally considered easier to fill.
Furthermore, Gutekunst addressed trade rumors surrounding Jaire Alexander, the highly-paid cornerback. Despite Alexander’s one-game suspension following a coin-toss incident, Gutekunst stated that there is no consideration given to trading him. Alexander received an $8 million roster bonus on March 20. The Packers had signed Alexander to a four-year, $84 million extension in 2022, making it the highest average annual value (AAV) for corners in the NFL. However, Alexander has faced extensive time on the sidelines due to injuries over the past three seasons, affecting his trade value. Despite this, Pro Football Focus rated him among the top 25 cornerbacks in the league this season.
