Aaron Jones has quickly made headlines after his surprising move from the Green Bay Packers to the Minnesota Vikings. The former Packers Pro Bowl running back signed a one-year deal with the Vikings after being released in March, and he’s already proving his worth. In Week 1, Jones was the driving force behind the Vikings’ 28-6 victory over the New York Giants, rushing for 94 yards and scoring a touchdown on just 14 carries, averaging an impressive 6.7 yards per attempt. He also contributed two catches for 15 yards, showcasing his versatility.
Meanwhile, the Packers have struggled in Jones’ absence, suffering a 34-29 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, where their quarterback Jordan Love exited the game with a sprained MCL. The border rivalry between the Vikings and Packers will heat up this season with matchups set for Week 4 in Green Bay and Week 17 in Minnesota, games that Jones is undoubtedly looking forward to.
Despite his move to the Vikings, Jones remains a fan favorite among some Packers supporters. One fan wrote, “This guy doesn’t represent Wisconsin or Packers fans Aaron. I appreciate you, and you are still my daughter’s favorite Packer even if you are a Vikings [sic] now. God bless.”
Aaron Jones Excited for Vikings’ Home Opener Against 49ers
Looking ahead, Jones and the Vikings face a significant test against the San Francisco 49ers, the reigning conference champions. “They’re the standard, they’re the defending conference champs, so that’s the standard, that’s where every other team in this league is trying to get to,” Jones said in a recent press conference. “So, I like to give them their respect.”
Jones, who turns 30 in December, is determined to make this season his best yet, defying the common narrative of running backs declining as they approach 30. His impressive performance against the Giants was capped by a moment of respect from head coach Kevin O’Connell, who allowed Jones to continue playing late into the game for a shot at surpassing the 100-yard rushing mark. “I really respect Kev for that,” Jones said. “He left me in there… It was kind of special to me.”
Aaron Jones Hints at Long-Term Future with Vikings
While Jones is in the latter stages of his career, he’s making a strong case to remain in Minnesota beyond this season. His enthusiasm for the Vikings’ culture and fan base, particularly the SKOL chant, signals his desire to make Minnesota his final NFL home. “Speaking up about the SKOL chant, being as engaging as he is… I think he’s doing everything in his power to think ‘I can be here beyond one season. That this can be my final home,’” KSTP’s Darren Wolfson commented.
With his performance on the field and his growing connection with the team, Jones is positioning himself for a potential multi-year contract when he reaches free agency next offseason. If he continues to deliver and the Vikings find the right financial terms, fans might see Jones retire in purple and gold, cementing his legacy in Minnesota.
