The Green Bay Packers have made some headlines ahead of NFL Free Agency due to parting ways with veterans De’Vondre Campbell and David Bakhtiari. These moves cleared a ton of cap space for the team, but fans were skeptical due to the Packers typically staying very quiet during free agency. However, the team made a big move on Monday by agreeing to terms with All-Pro running Josh Jacobs.
Green Bay Packers to Sign Josh Jacobs in NFL Free Agency
The Green Bay Packers offense is built around establishing the run, as so much of their passing game operates off of play-action. So, in order to have an effective passing game, the team must be able to run the ball well. The Packers already had a terrific running back in Aaron Jones, but now the team adds Josh Jacobs in NFL Free Agency.
Green Bay was not expected to bring back AJ Dillon, so it made sense for the team to explore the free-agent running back market. Still, bringing in a veteran with that much wear and tear to play alongside Jones, who struggles to stay healthy as well, is an interesting decision. After seeing nearly 400 touches in 2022, Jacobs missed four games and averaged over 20 touches per game last season. Yes, Jones and Jacobs could have a true split and balance out the workload, but considering they both are players who need to get in a rhythm and get better as the game progresses, limiting their touches could also limit their effectiveness.
Aaron Jones’ Contract
The Packers also entered the offseason knowing they must address the Aaron Jones contract after he took a pay cut last season. Currently, Jones has a cap hit of over $17.5M.
It’s possible this free agency move will help to convince Jones to restructure and take less money this season, as he will see less work/hits. Of course, the Packers’ Josh Jacobs free agency signing could also be a threat to Jones or, even worse, a replacement. This would certainly ruin the party Packers fans are currently having. Only time will tell.
