Although some expected it to happen, Aaron Jones actually leaving the Green Bay Packers still came as a surprise.
Jones was a loyal, team-first Packer who gladly took pay-cuts in the past in order to help the organization.
However, Jones drew a line in the sand this time around and decided enough was enough when he was reportedly approached to take yet another significant pay-cut.
The end result to the whole saga was Jones being released by the Packers and him ultimately deciding to sign with the rival Minnesota Vikings.
Imagine saying that sentence a year ago this time???
The Packers did end up signing running back Josh Jacobs to replace Jones, so it’s not like it’s all doom and gloom in Green Bay.
Still, Jones was a monstrous part of the Packers identity the past few years. It’s safe to say he will be missed.
Someone who will miss him perhaps most of all is quarterback Jordan Love.
He spoke about just how strange it is not having Jones on the team anymore.
“It was very tough,” Love said of losing Jones.
“Aaron Jones is such a special player. Special guy in this locker room since I’ve been here. Everyone loved Aaron, and it was very tough.”
Having said that, Love was also quick to point out how much he enjoys having the “new guy” onboard…
“Obviously getting Josh here has been awesome. Excited to see him on the field. He’s an awesome player. He’s been an awesome teammate so far. It’s been good getting to know him, and I’m excited to see what he can do this year,” he said.
As the Packers embrace the changes in their backfield, they will have the opportunity to face Jones twice this season.
Jones has already spoke about how excited he is to get revenge on the team that kicked him to the curb.
After all, there’s certainly a reason why he preferred to stay in the NFC North.
What are your thoughts on Green Bay’s decision to get rid of Jones?
Did they make a major mistake? … Or is Jacobs a clear and obvious upgrade?
In the bigger picture, what are your realistic expectations for both the Packers and Vikings this coming season???