In March 2024, Aaron Jones, former Green Bay Packers running back, joined the Minnesota Vikings on a one-year contract. After delivering a breakout season, the team rewarded him with a two-year extension valued at $20 million, signaling their confidence in his continued impact.
Jones finished last season having played 17 games, rushing for 1,138 yards and catching 51 passes. His total touchdowns stood at seven, broken down into five rushing and two receiving scores. Such strong numbers placed him ninth among all <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL running backs in the eyes of former All-Pro Maurice Jones-Drew, who expects Jones to meet or exceed these statistics in 2025.
“Jones posted career-high marks in carries and rush yards in his first season in Minnesota, resulting in a two-year extension (stop me if you’ve heard this before),” Jones-Drew said, via NFL.com. “He has an opportunity to build on that performance with the Vikings handing the keys to the offense to first-year starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy.”
With key offseason changes to the Vikings’ interior offensive line, including free agent additions Will Fries and Ryan Kelly, and first-round draft pick Donovan Jackson, Jones’ prospects appear even stronger.
“With the interior of Minnesota’s offensive line completely overhauled in free agency (Will Fries and Ryan Kelly) and the draft (first-round pick Donovan Jackson), I think Jones will at least match his 2024 numbers.”
Aaron Jones Expresses Confidence in Quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s Leadership
The Vikings completed the 2024 season with an outstanding 14-3 record, despite losing starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy to a preseason injury. Backup QB Sam Darnold performed admirably, earning Pro Bowl honors and sparking debate over who should lead the team going forward. Nevertheless, Minnesota chose to maintain their commitment to McCarthy as the starting quarterback.
In an April appearance on Good Morning Football, Jones conveyed strong support for McCarthy’s capabilities and competitive spirit.
“J.J.’s a winner,” Jones remarked.
“If you look from high school through his time in college, he’s lost one career game. He came in (and) in his short time there, he was balling. The preseason, he ended up getting hurt, unfortunately. But I think it might’ve been a quarterback battle if he didn’t get hurt. He’s different. He’s a competitor. He wants to be great and he’s hungry.”
Outlook for Vikings’ Offense Heading into 2025 Season
The Minnesota Vikings appear poised for a strong offensive showing in 2025, anchored by Aaron Jones and supported by a renewed offensive line. With McCarthy ready to take the reins, the team likely aims to build on last year’s success and push deeper into the playoffs. Jones’ breakout season and subsequent contract extension highlight his growing role as a key contributor in Minnesota’s offense.
As the Wolves prepare for the upcoming campaign, all eyes will be on Jones to see whether he can continue to dominate and elevate the Vikings’ ground game under McCarthy’s leadership.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Aaron Jones still deaf?
A. Jones, who was born deaf, never let this define his abilities. He shines both in academics and sports. His talents have led to scholarship offers from leading universities throughout the country.
Q. What is the deal with Aaron Jones?
A. Minnesota is keeping Aaron Jones, as he is signing again with the Vikings on a two-year deal worth $20 million. The contract promises $13 million guaranteed, according to sources. Drew Rosenhaus handled the negotiation. Unfortunately, their seasonal hopes often end with a loss to the Eagles.
Q. Is Aaron Jones completely deaf?
A. Jones was born unable to hear, yet he has never let this condition hold him back.
Q. Why does Aaron Jones always wear sunglasses?
A. He gave it to me last year, and I’ve worn it ever since. Jones says his unique sunglasses and sombrero are a fun way to express himself both personally and on the football field. “Many people don’t see who you truly are outside your helmet,” he mentioned.