AJ Dillon's future with Packers takes one final shocking twist

All indications pointed to AJ Dillon departing in free agency, but there has been one final twist to the story.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Green Bay Packers are re-signing Dillon pending a physical.

Wow. This comes as a surprise, as it seemed the Packers had already planned for their future without Dillon. Green Bay signed Josh Jacobs to replace Aaron Jones. Last week, Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported the Packers weren't likely to re-sign Dillon.

This also follows a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport that Dillon was considering a move to the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, or Indianapolis Colts.

AJ Dillon's return solves Packers' running back problem

The Packers have one less position to worry about entering the 2024 NFL Draft, and it's great to see Dillon returning to Green Bay. He has fully embraced Wisconsin and earned the nickname "The Mayor of Door County." Dillon isn't going anywhere.

While Green Bay could still draft a running back, especially with Josh Jacobs effectively on a year-to-year contract, they no longer need to.

The Packers can lean on their rushing attack with a combination of Jacobs and Dillon, who can wear down defenses.

Green Bay also has Emanuel Wilson entering year two. According to Matthew Berry of NBC Sports, the Packers "like" Wilson, and he could have an increased role in 2024.

Dillon made a slow start last season but ran hard in the second half of the year. He rarely posts great yards-per-carry numbers, but that's not Dillon's role. His strength is picking up the tough yards, particularly in short-yardage situations.

It will be fascinating to see whether Green Bay adds to the backfield at any point in the draft. Brian Gutekunst could comfortably pass on the position, trusting the trio of Jacobs, Dillon, and Wilson to get the job done.

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