Packers: 5 potential replacements for Aaron Jones in 2021

As Aaron Jones’ stay with the Green Bay Packers is potentially coming to an end this month, it’s time to begin the search for a replacement.

That’s easier said than done, of course, as Jones has been one of the best running backs in the NFL over the past couple of seasons, posting 1,000 yards in both years since Matt LaFleur took over as head coach.

While ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Packers will try to re-sign Jones, after not using the franchise tag, there’s a good chance he’ll be playing football elsewhere in 2021.

So where do the Packers go from here? Which running backs could they target as a replacement for Jones this offseason? Let’s look at potential options including both the draft and free agency.

5. Travis Etienne

One of the best running backs in the 2021 NFL Draft, if the Packers are willing to use an early-round pick, Clemson’s Travis Etienne could be the answer.

A three-down back, Etienne has 2,528 rushing yards and 1,020 receiving yards with 39 total touchdowns over the past two seasons. Yes, 39 touchdowns.

A star at Clemson, Etienne could quickly become one of the best running backs in the NFL. So why so low in these rankings?

Well, the Packers would have to be prepared to use one of their top draft picks to land Etienne, potentially even in the first round. If he falls to the second, they’d likely have to trade up. Even after using a second-rounder on AJ Dillon a year ago, it’s hard to see the Packers being quite as aggressive again this year.