How can the Packers replace Aaron Jones this offseason?

After finding the end zone 30 times in the past two seasons, Aaron Jones will be missed if he’s not re-signed by the Green Bay Packers this offseason.

Jones has played a huge role in the Packers’ offensive success under head coach Matt LaFleur but is now set to hit free agency, Green Bay may have to find a way to replace his production next season.

If Jones leaves, let’s look at a few options the Packers have.

Give AJ Dillon a featured role

The time might be now for Packers second-round pick AJ Dillon.

The moment he was drafted, fans looked ahead to the upcoming free agency as a potential reason why. Well, Dillon could be the leader of this backfield in 2021.

Dillon was the clear number three behind Jones and Jamaal Williams this past season but he impressed in his limited opportunities. Dillon averaged 5.3 yards per attempt. In his only game with a featured role, the rookie rushed 21 times for 124 yards and two touchdowns. Not a bad audition.

Dillon is a different running back to Jones, but he could be a great starting option for the Packers next season.

Strengthen the running back room this offseason

This can work alongside the first option. If Jones is gone, Dillon can be the starter but the Packers should still add depth.

Assuming Dillon is set for a featured role, the Packers wouldn’t need to necessarily use an early-round pick at RB again and could instead add some depth later on.

Matt LaFleur likes to have a strong ground game with multiple options in the backfield. Without Jones, the Packers will need to turn to the draft.

Re-sign Jamaal Williams

Another possibility would be to bring back Williams, who could form a good duo with Dillon. While not the explosive runner Jones is, Williams has been a more-than-capable option in a featured role when Jones has missed time.

Re-signing Williams would be more affordable than bringing back Jones and would also take some pressure off finding a running back in the draft.

It would still make sense to go with Dillon as the starter, but Williams could be a good complement.