In 2024, the Denver Broncos addressed their biggest question: Is Bo Nix their quarterback of the future? The answer was a clear yes, and now the team’s focus shifts to acquiring the right pieces to elevate them from a borderline playoff team to a true championship contender.
One area of concern is the running back position. The Broncos are somewhat thin at this spot, and it’s unlikely that free agent Javonte Williams will return. While the team has Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime, neither seems to be a viable RB1 in Sean Payton’s offense.
Payton may prefer to bring in a seasoned veteran, and Nick Brinkerhoff of USA TODAY suggests that veteran could be Aaron Jones.
After spending seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers, Jones joined the Minnesota Vikings for the 2024 season. Despite reaching 30 years old, Jones had a strong year with the Vikings, rushing for 1,138 yards and five touchdowns. What would particularly appeal to Payton is Jones’ ability in the passing game—he caught 51 passes this season. Over his career, Jones has accumulated over 7,000 rushing yards, with only four active players (Saquon Barkley, Joe Mixon, Ezekiel Elliott, and Derrick Henry) surpassing him in career rushing yards.
If Jones leaves the Vikings, their rushing attack could take a hit, as Cam Akers is also a free agent, and the only running backs under contract are Ty Chandler and Zavier Scott. The Vikings might be inclined to retain Jones, though, and could offer him a one-year deal.
However, the key to landing Jones might be offering him more than just a one-year contract. If the Broncos are willing to do so, they could outbid the Vikings, who may not want to commit to more than a short-term deal.
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