Matt LaFleur chuckled before answering a question about A.J. Dillon’s usage on Wednesday at the NFL Scouting Combine, but the question did provide an opportunity for the Green Bay Packers to praise his bulldozing running back.
LaFleur called Dillon a “premier back” and said he’s only just starting to realize his immense potential.
“I think A.J. is just scratching the surface of what he can become,” LaFleur said.
Dillon already made a huge jump from Year 1 to 2.
Thrust into a bigger role as a replacement for Jamaal Williams in 2021, Dillon enjoyed a breakout season while leading the Packers in rushing and gaining over 1,000 total yards. He averaged 4.3 per carry, caught 34 of 37 targets in the passing game and scored seven total touchdowns.
At Pro Football Focus, Dillon finished second among running backs in overall grade, trailing only Jonathan Taylor.
LaFleur said the Packers are fortunate to have two No. 1 running backs in Dillon and Aaron Jones, who both provide value on offense as runners and receivers.
Dillon handled 221 total touches in 2021, or around 13 per game over a full 17-game schedule. It’s certainly possible the Packers could get him closer to 250 touches, or 15 a game, but his ceiling might be limited as long as Jones – a dynamic player – is still in Green Bay as a complementary option.
Better run-blocking in 2022 could help Dillon create more big runs. He had just nine runs of 10 or more yards in 2021, and the majority of his rushing production came after first contact. More explosive plays might be a logical next step for Dillon as a runner in Year 3.
And don’t be surprised if LaFleur finds more and more ways of getting Dillon involved as a pass-catcher.
Dillon was often at his best late in games, using his tackle-breaking power to stack first downs and kill the clock.
LaFleur said Dillon’s rib injury during the Packers’ divisional round playoff loss to the 49ers played a factor in the final outcome.
“We felt the effects of when we lost A.J. in that playoff game, we were missing a little something there,” LaFleur said.