Packers: 3 trade destinations for Aaron Jones before the deadline

The Green Bay Packers are in a tough position as the NFL trade deadline approaches. They aren't a player away from competing in the NFC, but they aren't bad enough for a fire sale.

General manager Brian Gutekunst has one eye on the future. He hasn't got much choice. Several dead cap hits, including over $40 million for Aaron Rodgers, left the Packers without much financial flexibility in the offseason. Green Bay opted to get younger with a more affordable roster.

The timeline no longer reads "all-in" like in previous years. The Packers are building for the bigger picture. If a good offer comes in for a veteran player, Gutekunst should consider it.

Aaron Jones is the Packers' best offensive player. They have badly missed him in recent weeks. The Packers would effectively punt on the season by trading their former Pro Bowl running back, but if they can net a Day 2 draft pick, it's a move they should make.

With a rising cap hit in 2024 and Jones nearing 30, he likely isn't in the Packers' long-term plans. Moving on now would provide some cap relief with the potential of adding a premium draft pick. Here are three perfect landing spots for Jones.

3. Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills are Super Bowl contenders. Led by quarterback Josh Allen and wide receiver Stefon Diggs, the Bills' offense is among the best in football.

If there's one area they can improve, it's on the ground. James Cook is having a solid season as the Bills' lead back, while Allen adds plenty of yards on the ground on his own, but if Cook misses any time, Buffalo will turn to Damien Harris and Latavius Murray.

Aaron Jones would form an excellent running back duo with Cook. With his explosiveness, defenses would always have to respect the Bills' rushing attack. And the moment they do that, Allen can hurt them through the air.

Jones can help Buffalo get over the line when the games count the most in January.