Vikings Face Competition for Aaron Jones’ Services
The Minnesota Vikings have a huge class of in-house free agents. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is asked to re-sign some of the contributors while also addressing some of the team’s weaknesses. Byron Murphy, Cam Bynum, Sam Darnold, and Aaron Jones are the top names on Minnesota’s exit ramp.
Vikings Face Competition for Aaron Jones’ Services
Running back Jones was acquired in the 2024 offseason to elevate the subpar rushing game, and he undoubtedly made a difference compared to Alexander Mattison in the previous campaign. However, he only signed a one-year deal and is now set to enter the free agency pool once again.
The Vikings could be interested in re-upping with their veteran runner, especially because there isn’t much depth behind him. Cam Akers also played on a one-year contract, leaving RB3 Ty Chandler and Zavier Scott as the only halfbacks on the roster beyond March 12, when teams are allowed to negotiate with players.
But the purple team won’t be the only suitor for his services. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler expects the Denver Broncos to enter the race for the 30-year-old running back.
“Expect Denver to look for a versatile back to bolster Sean Payton’s offense,” Fowler wrote. “Could Jones fit the mold despite his age? He’s the kind of runner/pass catcher who just might.”
Sean Payton featured a mix of numerous running backs in Denver, deploying Javonte Williams, Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime, and Tyler Badie. Signing Jones would change the complexity of the backfield and put more emphasis on a single player rather than giving four players a shared role.
There’s no doubt about it: Jones is one of the most versatile backs in the league. The longtime Packer rushed for 1,138 yards and five touchdowns in his (to date) only season with the Vikings and added 408 receiving yards and a pair of touchdowns as a pass-catcher.
He ranked in the top ten among running backs in both receiving and rushing yards. In addition to that, Jones is an excellent pass protector, a skill that is regularly forgotten among fans but something coaches value highly.
Jones told the Pioneer Press earlier this month, “This is an excellent place. This is where I hope to finish my career.”
Last season, Jones signed a one-year contract worth $7 million. This time, according to Pro Football Focus, he could be looking for a two-year deal for the same salary. A potential bidding war between the Vikings, Broncos, and other franchises would increase the price.
If he departs from the organization after only one year, the Vikings could look at former Steelers running back Najee Harris or Chargers RB1 J.K. Dobbins. Addressing the need in the draft is another option, especially because this year’s group is viewed as exceptional for running backs.
Jones will turn 31 during the 2025 campaign.
Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Reference and Over The Cap helped with this article.
Janik Eckardt is a football fan who likes numbers and stats. The Vikings became his favorite team despite their quarterback at the time, Christian Ponder. He is a walking soccer encyclopedia, loves watching sitcoms, and prefers Classic rock over other genres. Follow him on Twitter if you like the Vikings: @JanikEckardt