The Dallas Cowboys might find themselves in a fortunate position if the Green Bay Packers decide to part ways with Aaron Jones this NFL offseason, their standout running back, due to financial constraints.
The Packers, who are currently struggling with salary cap issues, have been attempting to renegotiate Jones’s salary to a lower figure for the second consecutive year. Failure to agree may lead the Packers to release Jones.
This potential move could open a golden opportunity for the Cowboys to acquire a top-tier running back like Jones, who ended the last season on a high note and could prove to be a bargain as he aims to demonstrate his worth. The decision carries a certain level of risk for the Cowboys, or any team that might sign Jones should he be released. However, the potential benefits are compelling.
According to Jason La Canfora of the Washington Post, Jones is likely to attract immediate interest from several teams, including the Cowboys and the Baltimore Ravens, should the Packers let him go.
Jones, who is in the last year of his four-year, $48 million contract and is due to make $12 million this season, took a $5 million pay cut the previous year. Given his past concessions, he may be less inclined to accept another reduction. Despite this, his current market value is estimated at $5.1 million annually by Spotrac, suggesting his salary might not align with his recent performance, particularly considering his health issues and missed games last season.
Nevertheless, Jones’s capabilities are undeniable when he’s fit. He demonstrated his skill late in the season and into the playoffs, making a significant impact against the Cowboys, a fact that hasn’t gone unnoticed.
The situation could prompt the Packers to renegotiate Jones’s contract to retain him, recognizing his value when healthy. However, if they choose to move on, they will engage in a highly competitive market for running backs, with the Cowboys potentially leading the charge, especially as they may be looking to replace their free-agent running back, Tony Pollard.
The Packers, who are focusing on developing their quarterback, Jordan Love, and maintaining a balanced offense, might consider the financial advantage of finding a new primary running back at a cost less than Jones’s current $12 million for 2024.
As this scenario unfolds, the Cowboys are poised to respond quickly, potentially seizing an opportunity to bolster their roster with a proven talent like Jones.