4. Aaron Jones
Stat line: 15 carries, 71 yards, 5 catches, 40 yards, 1 TD
Everyone knew Aaron Jones would be the focal point of the offense with Adams and Lazard out. Especially the Falcons.
Knowing that Adams’ status for the game was up in the air, the team prepared to stop Jones and make the Packers’ unproven receivers beat them. Then the Packers’ first drive of the game occurred and despite loading up to stop him, the Falcons were helpless as Jones led the team down the field, capping it off with a touchdown reception.
Matt LaFleur’s use of Jones so far this season has been superb. He is mixing in Williams to keep the wear and tear off of Jones, and with Williams’ newfound dedication to bettering his body, there has been no drop-off. And it is paying off in big ways.
This is a copycat league, and the way the Packers were run off the field last January, it is no surprise to see them use their multiple backs in the way they have.
What makes this better is the San Francisco 49ers did not have a back the caliber of Jones.
With every week, Jones is earning more and more money to that check that’s coming due at the end of this season. The Packers would be wise to get him signed sooner rather than later.