Packers players and fans are furious at disrespectful Aaron Jones release
Aaron Jones is one of the most beloved Green Bay Packers players of all time. His treatment on the way out has left Packers Nation speechless.
The Packers arguably made the shock of free agency's opening day by signing running back Josh Jacobs. The move was met with concern, but excitement from the fanbase—the idea of pairing Jacobs with Jones was fascinating.
But those dreams were quickly crushed, with NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reporting the Packers have released Jones. The Athletic's Matt Schneidman provided additional context, noting that the two sides couldn't agree on a way to lower his cap hit.
Good for Jones—the disrespect shown to a franchise legend is hard to comprehend, and he didn't want to accept a pay cut.
He gave his all to the team on and off the field. Jones raised his game at the backend of last season, rushing for over 100 yards in five straight contests, helping the Packers reach the NFC Divisional Round. Just as important was his leadership. Green Bay's young offense looked up to Jones.
Jones took a pay cut last offseason. The Packers wanted him to take another, and when they couldn't figure something out, they went ahead and handed Josh Jacobs a big contract.
Packers fans and players react to shocking Aaron Jones release
Packers fans and players have reacted to the news. Nobody is happy. Jayden Reed, Eric Stokes, and David Bakhtiari responded on social media.
😪
— j.reed1💂🏾 (@JaydenReed5) March 11, 2024
Not 33
— Eric Stokes Jr (@_jamane_) March 11, 2024
Gutted to see the news @Showtyme_33. Keep your head up. You are a savage and consummate pro. Did it the right way. You’ll land on your feet. pic.twitter.com/Jq4KkAwwBN
— David Bakhtiari (@DavidBakhtiari) March 11, 2024
The Packers are losing a locker room leader and one of their best players. Fans are trying to process what has happened over the past few hours.
Not sure I understand a thought process where you think the Green Bay Packers are a better football team without Aaron Jones. Gutting
— Perri Goldstein (@perri_goldstein) March 11, 2024
Aaron Jones was *really* good when he came back from injury last year. I understand he's older but, idk....
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) March 11, 2024
I refuse to believe Brian Gutekunst is really going to allow Aaron Jones to walk...
— Eli Berkovits (@BookOfEli_NFL) March 11, 2024
The man is the heart and soul of the #Packers.
Josh Jacobs is great.
— Timothy Lindsey (@TimoLindsey) March 11, 2024
But I just, I just, I just…
I just don’t know how you can’t keep Aaron Jones in the building.
I am legitimately devastated that Aaron Jones won't be on this team
— Tom Grossi (@tomgrossicomedy) March 11, 2024
Will this work out for the Packers? Only time will tell, but refusing to pay Jones and then handing big money to Jacobs is about as disrespectful as it gets. It's not like Jones can't play. In the second half of 2023, he proved he is still one of the league's best.
It has been a fascinating start to free agency. Who knows what will happen next?
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