Aaron Jones Would Return to Smaller Role in MIN

What They're Saying

"The big thing for me is we loved having Aaron Jones, the impact he had," O'Connell said. "For the better part of his career, he had kind of been a part of backfield committees, but for the most part, Aaron Jones was the feature back in 2024. So I would love to have Aaron back. And then we just continue to grow in that room, whether it's infusing a young player in the draft or maybe another player in free agency alongside Aaron Jones, hopefully." 

This winter, Jones is on record saying that Minnesota is “where I want to be.”

Last week, the team moved back the void date on Jones' contract. Now, both sides have until the day before free agency opens to hammer out a new deal.

2024 Fantasy Football Recap

Jones was plenty useful in 2024, finishing as the PPR RB12.

His underlying rushing metrics were average at best, though. Among 29 RBs with 150+ carries, he ranked tied for 15th in YPC, 20th in yards after contact per attempt, and 25th in Pro Football Focus' Elusive Rating. 

Jones ultimately delivered with a healthy 255 carries -- and a solid receiving output.

Playing on a pass-heavy offense, the former Packer snagged 51 passes for 408 yards and 2 TDs. Jones posted his best PFF receiving grade since 2021.

We’ll see if he’s back in Minnesota this fall. Even if that’s the case, expect Jones’ numbers to dip. We fully expect the Vikings to upgrade on Ty Chandler/Cam Akers at RB2