Packers latest signing could push AJ Dillon out the door

Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst is the master of under-the-radar signings.

De'Vondre Campbell signed an affordable one-year deal and became an All-Pro. The Packers signed Rasul Douglas off the Arizona Cardinals' practice squad. He is still a reliable starter for Green Bay.

The Packers hope for similar success from their latest signing.

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Packers are signing free-agent running back James Robinson.

What does this mean for Green Bay's offense, specifically AJ Dillon?

Packers signing James Robinson puts AJ Dillon on notice

Signing James Robinson is a low-risk, high-reward move by the Packers. He was previously an excellent starting running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he has struggled to regain his best form since suffering a torn Achilles in 2021.

The Packers are giving him an opportunity. Initially, he will provide depth to the running back room. That's important after the team moved on from Patrick Taylor.

Before his injury, Robinson had a 1,000-yard rookie season with the Jaguars despite going undrafted.

There's reason for optimism. In his return from the Achilles injury, Robinson rushed for 340 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 4.2 yards per attempt, in seven games for the Jaguars before they traded him to the New York Jets. But he has failed to make an impact since leaving Jacksonville.

If Robinson can recapture his previous form, the Packers may have an upgrade on AJ Dillon.

Dillon has struggled to get going this season, averaging only 3.0 yards per carry. The run-blocking hasn't helped, but Dillon isn't making enough explosive plays, even when running lanes are opened.

For the time being, Dillon will remain the RB2 behind Aaron Jones. But the Packers have made a smart move by signing Robinson. It's a risk-free addition, and Robinson's previous success shows what he can potentially bring to the offense.

And if Robinson gets back to his best, his arrival could signal the end for Dillon in Green Bay.

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