After battling with injuries for the past few seasons in the NFL, the Minnesota Vikings could cut former Green Bay Packer standout Aaron Jones during the offseason. According to reports, there are several cut candidates for the Vikings entering the offseason, but the team parting ways with Jones seems imminent. The running back has battled with multiple injuries in the past as an adequate starter for the Vikings, recording over 1,000 rushing yards and five touchdowns during his debut season in Minnesota. While it caught many by surprise, the Packers released Jones in 2024 after failing to restructure his contract to keep apart of the long-term plans.
Green Bay stuck with Josh Jacobs as a younger option, which presented a safer risk for the team. Unfortunately, the same thing may happen to Jones this upcoming offseason if they sign a new running back in free agency or draft one.
Vikings Rumored to Cut Former Pro Bowl Bust Aaron Jones This Offseason
Jones is still one of the better downhill runners in the league. Originally selected as a fifth-round pick, the former Pro Bowler is slowing down with age. He might benefit elsewhere with a team that has a running back already established and could join as a backup. It’s hard to imagine that Jones would take a backup role, but after barely breaking 500 rushing yards this past season, it might be safer to take what he can get.
While he’s been able to stay healthy, the Vikings still have Jones for one more year. Minnesota could trade him, but the likelihood of suitors is slim. The Vikings will save money if they decide to release the veteran, and if they do, here are three teams who should roll the dice.
Potential Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
After firing John Harbaugh, the Baltimore Ravens are close to being in a rebuilding era. As crazy as it may sound, the Ravens could trade star quarterback Lamar Jackson if there comes an offer they can’t turn down. However, they must address the running back unit either way. Derrick Henry isn’t slowing down and doesn’t plan to retire anytime soon. It doesn’t mean the team won’t draft or snag another free agent running back this offseason.
Keaton Mitchell is decent, but he hasn’t convinced anyone that he could take Henry’s place. While they still have Justice Hill in the background, they could sign a low-stakes running back like Jones to provide extra stability for Henry.
Dallas Cowboys
Unfortunately, the Cowboys won’t be able to re-sign everyone, which means Javonte Williams may head somewhere else if he receives a deal he can’t turn down. The same can be said about George Pickens, but Dallas will more than likely prioritize Pickens over Williams in the offseason. If Williams is gone, the Cowboys could take a chance on Jones through a one-year contract to see if he can recapture his old form behind one of the greatest offensive lines when healthy.
Detroit Lions
After having an abysmal end to their 2025 campaign, the Detroit Lions could be forced to part ways with their long-time running backs. David Montgomery has teased multiple times that he may request a trade once the new league year begins. Jahmyr Gibbs is the best running back in football right now, but he still could use veteran help to keep him calm through the reps. Jones is a perfect fit in this offense, especially if the veteran wants to make an impact somehow and punch through a potential playoff appearance.