The Green Bay Packers made significant changes to the running back room a year ago, surprisingly signing Josh Jacobs the same day they released Aaron Jones.
Green Bay later drafted MarShawn Lloyd in the third round and signed Chris Brooks before the regular season, who became an unsung hero on offense.
Emanuel Wilson maximized his opportunity as the Packers' No. 2 running back, turning 103 carries into 502 yards and four touchdowns at an impressive 4.9 yards-per-carry average.
The Packers boasted the league's No. 5-ranked rushing offense despite losing Lloyd and AJ Dillon to long-term injuries. Lloyd only featured in one game as a rookie, while Dillon missed the entire season on injured reserve.
With Lloyd poised for a featured role when he returns in 2025, the Packers must make a decision on Dillon's future. Their latest move may confirm his departure.
Packers bring back Emanuel Wilson and likely close the door on AJ Dillon's time in Green Bay
Bill Huber of Sports Illustrated reports that the Packers have tendered several exclusive-rights free agents, including Wilson. It was an easy and expected decision for general manager Brian Gutekunst, who ensures Green Bay's top four running backs from last season all return.
It likely shuts the door on Dillon's Packers career. The former second-rounder is an unrestricted free agent, and his contract will expire at the beginning of the new league year on March 12.
The Packers used a rare four-year qualifying offer to re-sign Dillon last offseason, a low-risk move about as team-friendly as it gets. He would unfortunately miss the entire year due to a neck injury.
It's difficult to see where he would fit into the Packers' backfield.
Jacobs dominates the carries as the featured back, while Wilson has proven himself a capable No. 2. Lloyd has unlimited potential as an explosive change-of-pace option — he just needs to stay healthy. Brooks stepped up and proved himself time and time again whenever the Packers needed him.
Where does Dillon fit in?
Packers fans love him, and he is an incredible person. Dillon embraced the Wisconsin lifestyle from Day 1 and will always be welcome at 1265 Lombardi Ave. But football is a tough business. It was a surprise when the Packers brought him back a year ago, but with their improved depth and success at the position, Dillon's time is likely up.
Re-signing Wilson completes the top four on the depth chart. Dillon will likely begin his search for a new team when free agency opens next week.
