Top 5 NFC North running backs ranked after Dalvin Cook release

1. Aaron Jones, Green Bay Packers

With Dalvin Cook gone, Aaron Jones is the best running back in the NFC North, and it's not particularly close.

Jones is one of the most explosive running backs in the league and is always exciting to watch. He averages an outstanding 5.1 yards-per-carry average over six seasons and has rushed for over 1,000 yards in three of the past four seasons.

He has achieved this despite splitting carries in the Packers' offense. Jones has only ever had 20+ carries in six games in his NFL career.

Jones also catches passes like a wide receiver. In the past five seasons, he has made 233 catches for 1,821 yards and 17 touchdowns.

The former Pro Bowler is tough to bring down, has the explosiveness to make defenders miss, and he can hit a home run at any moment. He is also an excellent receiver.

Jones is an outstanding running back, a great teammate, and a leader. He took a pay cut to stay in Green Bay, and he is now the clear No. 1 running back in the NFC North. The Packers will need to lean on their star running back to help new starting quarterback Jordan Love this season.

With Dalvin Cook gone, Aaron Jones is by far the best running back in the division.

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