Many thought the 2023 offseason would be one in which the Packers altered their running back depth chart, but the team will maintain the status quo in that regard heading into the season. That will leave A.J. Dillon in a backup role, but he is not looking to play his way out of Green Bay this year. 
The 25-year-old is entering the final year of his rookie contract, one which has proven to be a highly valuable one for the Packers over the past two campaigns in particular. Dillon had a breakout season in 2021 with 1,116 scrimmage yards and seven total touchdowns, seemingly leaving the door open to his ascension to a starting role ahead of Aaron Jones in 2022 or ’23. However, the the pair split snaps and carries once again last season, with Dillon’s yardage and efficiency totals regressing.
Jones agreed to take a $5MM pay cut this offseason, ensuring that he will remain in Green Bay for at least one more year. That could complicate Dillon’s efforts to take a step forward in production ahead of his first foray into free agency, but he is not concerned with boosting his value as much as he is eyeing a deal allowing him to remain with the Packers for the long term.
“I love Green Bay,” the former second-rounder said, via Jason Wilde of the Wisconsin State Journal. “Green Bay knows that. I love the Packers. The Packers know that. I’d play here until I can’t run anymore. I’ll pick up long snapper or whatever it is when I start slowing down. But there’s only so much I can control.”
Jones has two more years on his contract, but at age 28 (and with little in the way of experienced depth options at the RB spot) it would come as little surprise if the Packers were to shift their attention towards Dillon as their starter of the future. At a minimum, an extension for the latter would allow the team to maintain what has been an effective tandem in the backfield while transitioning to Jordan Love at quarterback. Dillon stated that he intends to “play free and have fun” after a disappointing 2022 campaign, something which could earn him a considerable raise from the Packers or another team.
“And how ever that happens – whether it’s 1,000 yards, 2,000 yards, 100 yards – so be it,” he added. “I’m going to have fun and enjoy all the time I have here. And hopefully, we’re back here next year.”