Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton emphasized the importance of having a strong running game, as the team ranked 16th in rushing yards in 2024. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler proposed that the Broncos could target Minnesota Vikings‘ soon-to-be free agent Aaron Jones.
Jones, 30, set career highs with 255 carries and 1,138 rushing yards last season with the Vikings.
A former Green Bay Packers standout and 2020 Pro Bowler, Jones signed a one-year, $7 million deal with Minnesota in 2024.
“Look for Denver to seek a versatile back to strengthen Sean Payton’s offense,” Fowler wrote on January 29. “Could Jones fit the profile, even at his age? He’s the kind of runner and pass-catcher who might just be a perfect fit.”
Jones has faced injuries throughout his career, but he managed to start all 17 regular-season games in 2024. It marked the third time in his career that he played every game in a season, and the second time in the last three years.
Aaron Jones Could Fit ‘Joker’ Role for Broncos
The key to Jones fitting with the Broncos lies in his versatility. Head coach Sean Payton explained the concept of a “joker” player, someone who isn’t a traditional receiver but rather a running back or tight end with exceptional ball skills that can create mismatches. Jones’ ability as both a runner and pass-catcher could make him ideal for this role.
According to Over The Cap, the Broncos are projected to have $34.8 million in cap space this offseason, with Jones’ market value set at $9.3 million annually, based on his $41.6 million in career earnings.
Jones could be a valuable addition for the Broncos, especially with his proven ability as a dual-threat in both the run game and the passing game. He totaled 51 receptions and 1,546 yards for the Vikings in 2024. ESPN’s Matt Bowen highlighted Jones’ strengths as a slasher in the run game and a capable pass catcher, particularly in a zone run scheme, which could play to his strengths and make him a strong fit for the “joker” role in Denver’s offense.
Broncos Running Game Needs Boost
The Broncos have four running backs under contract for 2025, which could make adding Jones more of a luxury move. Jaleel McLaughlin, the leading rusher among returning players, finished the regular season with 496 yards and 1 touchdown on 113 carries. He also contributed 24 catches for 76 yards and 2 touchdowns, displaying his dual-threat ability. However, McLaughlin is considered too small for a full-time role.
Rookie fifth-round pick Audric Estime had a 76-carry, 310-yard, 2-touchdown performance in his first season.
Blake Watson (4-10-0) and Tyler Badie (11-86-0) didn’t surpass 100 rushing yards on the year. Javonte Williams, the team’s leading rusher, totaled 513 yards and 4 touchdowns on 139 attempts but is set to become a free agent.
Interestingly, rookie quarterback Bo Nix ranked third on the team in rushing, with 430 yards and 4 touchdowns on 92 carries. The Broncos didn’t have a single 100-yard rusher all season, making them one of just two teams, along with the Cleveland Browns, to fall short in that category.
The Broncos relied heavily on Nix and the passing game, but they finished 1-6 in one-score games. Adding a reliable back could be key in improving that record and providing a more balanced offense moving forward.
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