The Green Bay Packers, in a move that left fans and followers stunned, decided to part ways with longtime running back Aaron Jones. Despite being amid contract negotiations, the NFC North squad made the surprising decision to release their star player. Green Bay general manager Brian Gutekunst needed to clarify the situation, releasing a statement about Jones’ unexpected departure from the franchise.
Jones and the Packers tried to agree on a restructured deal to reduce his cap number for 2024 but quickly found his replacement via former Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs. Green Bay also released another franchise cornerstone on Monday in the form of offensive tackle David Bakhtiari.
Green Bay Packers: Release Statement on Aaron Jones Being Cut
General manager Brian Gutekunst released a statement following Aaron Jones’ release from the Green Bay Packers. Although somewhat cookie-cutter, Gutekunst’s words were passionate about Jones’ time with the franchise. “We want to thank Aaron for his unwavering commitment to the Packers and the community over the past seven seasons,” said Gutekunst.
He continued, “It is certainly one of the hardest decisions we’ve had to make in my time with the Packers and not one taken lightly. He has not only had a significant impact on the field and in the locker room, but he is one of the most beloved players in the community. We wish nothing but the best for Aaron and his entire family moving forward.”
#Packers GM Brian Gutekunst’s statement after the organization released Aaron Jones. pic.twitter.com/iz2vBM0CCn
— Kyle Malzhan (@KyleMalzhan) March 11, 2024
Head Coach Matt LaFleur chimed in, “Today is a tough day for the Packers and our community. As good a player as Aaron is on the field, he is an even better person.”
“When I arrived in Green Bay as a first-time head coach, he was instrumental in establishing our winning culture and always served as the greatest example of what it meant to be a Packer. Aaron will always be one of the best players I had the opportunity to coach. He, his son, Junior, his mom, Vurgess, and his family will be missed,” finished LaFleur and the team statement on Aaron Jones’ release.
Aaron Jones: Storied Packers Career Comes to Unceremonious End
Barring a second stint with the Green Bay Packers, who released him after averaging 4.6 yards per carry, Aaron Jones’ time with the NFC North club has ended. Jones, the 182nd pick in the 2017 NFL draft, split time with fellow rusher Jamaal Williams during his first two seasons. However, he broke out in 2019, rushing for 1,084 yards and league-best 16 touchdowns. He also caught 49 passes for 474 yards and another three touchdowns. The UTEP product again shined in 2020, rushing for 1,104 yards and nine scores.
Jones dominated from 2019 to 2022, tallying 5,723 scrimmage yards and 47 touchdowns. Unfortunately, injuries took their toll on Jones last season, with the star rusher playing just 11 games. However, he still registered 889 scrimmage yards. Jones will leave Green Bay third all-time in scrimmage yards among rushers, trailing Ahman Green and Jim Taylor.
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1 Comment
Good in the poker room eh?