The Packers might have the best 1-2 punch at running back in the NFL right now. Aaron Jones is the electric, elusive, play-making back that they paid big money to in the offseason. Second year RB AJ Dillon is the perfect complement to Jones’ style; a big, bruising, power back that defenders struggle to bring down. AJ Dillon might lead the Packers in rushing this season.

            The production in terms of yards is what I want to focus on. Aaron Jones is obviously the lead RB in this stable, but his production has slowed down with his injury. On November 14 against the Seahawks, he suffered a sprained MCL, an injury that initially looked much worse than it is. However, that caused him to miss the Vikings game, and be very limited in his return against the LA Rams in week 12.

2021 season stats (thru week 13):

Jones (11 GP) 133 car, 564 yards, 3 TD, 4.2 avg.

Dillon (12 GP) 128 car, 543 yards, 2 TD, 4.2 avg.

            AJ Dillon is pacing Jones’ production well and has not missed any time this year. It also seems that Dillon is at his best down the stretch as the weather gets colder and he gets even harder to bring down. Most of us should remember his output (124 yards, 2 TD) against the Titans late last season in a cold, snowy game at Lambeau Field. Aaron Jones is a competitor and looks like he will be fully unleashed the rest of the season. I am not fully predicting that AJ Dillon will lead the Packers in rushing yards for the season, but it is a definite possibility.

            Dillon has fully solidified himself as a very good power running back in the NFL. He also has greatly improved his receiving skillset, and that is all the more reason to get him on the field more often. If Jones goes down with another injury, or has nagging issues with his knee, the Packers have full trust in AJ to lead the backfield and be the number one running back.

            Needless to say, the Packers are at their best with both of these guys playing. I wouldn’t be surprised to see more 21 personnel (two RB’s) coming down the stretch. My only point that I am trying to make is don’t be surprised if Dillon is atop of the rushing stats for the 2021 season. Jones will continue to be the lead back, but a heavy dosage of Dillon will be expected too. If both these RB’s are at the top of their game down the stretch, the Packers offense is extremely tough to stop.