Packers RB Aaron Jones has consistently produced when given the chance. In fact, among players with at least 200 career rushing attempts, Jones ranks first in NFL history in yards per carry (5.5). Although inconsistent “Usage” has kept Jones’ fantasy ceiling capped, that should change in a major way under new HC Matt LaFleur: the RB1 in LaFleur’s run-centric offense has touched the ball 15+ times in 42 of the last 48 games (87.5%).
Meanwhile, Jones has been elite with proper volume. In his 8 games with at least 15+ touches, Jones has netted 145 touches (24 rec), 883 YFS, and 9 TDs. Over a full season, this equates to a 290 touch (48 rec), 1766 YFS, and 18 TD pace. In other words, Jones would’ve scored 308 FPs (19.3 FPPG), trailing only Todd Gurley, Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, and Alvin Kamara in 2018.
Explored in more detail here, LaFleur’s entire offense is predicated on establishing a “marriage between the Run and Pass games.” This includes primarily means a bevy of play-action and screens off of seeming run-designs. For these to work, however, a firm run-game presence must be established. As such, LaFleur utilizes the always-effective “Shanahan Zone Blocking Scheme” to open up wide lanes and get defenses biting.
With superb vision and elite acceleration, Jones is the perfect fit. Moreover, the Packers top-seven offensive line is plenty athletic to execute. Even better: LaFleur loves throwing to his backs, especially in the screen game; a RB has caught 54+ passes in his system for three straight seasons. Jones will be incredibly dangerous with blockers in space. Both Todd Gurley and Devonta Freeman ripped of Top RB seasons in this offense, and Jones is set up to be the next beneficiary. Between the Volume and Scheme improvements, Jones is now the ideal second round RB.
Click here for more LaFleur’s overall offense, or Jones’ specific fit.
