Fantasy Football 2018: Early NFC North running back rankings

3. Aaron Jones, Green Bay Packers

Of the Packers’ two young running backs, Aaron Jones excites me the most. Jones impressed as a rookie, although he only took on a featured role in four games. The fifth-rounder had to wait his turn early in the season, and a midseason injury came at the worst time.

It’s encouraging how well Jones played while Rodgers was in at quarterback. He looked more comfortable than Williams when the Packers sped things up.

Jones’ breakout performance came against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5. He carried 19 times for 125 yards and a touchdown, showing great vision throughout the game. Jones is a big play waiting to happen, and he could dominate in 2018 as the No. 1 back.

Injuries are somewhat concerning. He needs to stay healthy. But if Jones can do that, I think he has the most upside of the two backs in Green Bay’s offense. While they will likely split carries, Jones excites me the most from a fantasy perspective.

Before both Jones and Rodgers got hurt early in the season, the rookie looked to be one of the top waiver wire acquisitions.

Jones’ current average draft position (ADP) puts him 45th among running backs, according to Fantasy Football Calculator, making him an 11th rounder in 12-team leagues. Mike Gillislee, Danny Woodhead and Rex Burkhead are all above him. Think about that.

A lot can change between now and your fantasy draft day, but if Jones drops that far, pick him up with confidence.