If the Minnesota Vikings decide to part ways with running back Aaron Jones this offseason, the team could save around $8 million in salary cap space. Entering the 2026 regular season at age 32, Jones might be replaced by a younger option as the Vikings adjust their roster. This article explores seven potential teams where Aaron Jones could continue his NFL career if he enters free agency.
Evaluating the Future of Aaron Jones with the Vikings
Aaron Jones has been a key figure for Minnesota over the past two seasons, playing in 29 out of 34 possible regular season games. Over that span, he accumulated 1,686 rushing yards on 387 attempts, averaging 4.4 yards per carry, along with 79 receptions for 607 yards and ten touchdowns.
His positive impact extends off the field, where his infectious personality has made him a favorite among teammates, coaches, fans, and the media. However, his $14.55 million cap hit in 2026 ranks as the third-highest among NFL running backs, trailing only Alvin Kamara and Jonathan Taylor. With a career-low yards per carry average last season and some missed games due to injury, the Vikings face a financial and strategic decision.
While Jones could remain in Minnesota because of his leadership in the locker room, the team may seek a more explosive running back at a lower cost. If the team opts to move forward without him, there are several clubs that might consider adding Jones to their roster.
Seven Teams Poised to Acquire Aaron Jones
Should Aaron Jones enter free agency, the following seven NFL teams emerge as logical fits, ranked from the least likely to the most probable destination.
7. Atlanta Falcons: A Familiar Setting in Georgia
Atlanta stands as a potential landing spot largely because Jones was born in Savannah, Georgia, though there are no direct coaching or management ties. The Falcons face the potential loss of Tyler Allgeier in free agency, creating a vacancy for a versatile running back. Pairing Jones alongside rookie RB1 Bijan Robinson could provide Atlanta with a reliable secondary back as Jones winds down his career.
6. Houston Texans: Returning to Texas Grounds
Jones’s connection to Texas comes from his high school years at Burges High School in West Texas. Houston, preparing to lose Nick Chubb and Dare Ogunbowale, has some uncertainty around Joe Mixon’s long-term health. Their 2025 rookie, Woody Marks, showed promise but may not be ready to lead the backfield. Jones could fill a valuable role as a stable RB1 or RB2 to complement the young talent.
5. Washington Commanders: Reuniting Familiar Faces
The Washington Commanders bring a familiar connection through their new defensive coordinator, Daronte Jones, who previously worked with Aaron Jones in Minnesota. The Commanders enter free agency with just one running back under contract, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who has inconsistent performance. Jones could join a crowded backfield needing reinforcements, potentially reuniting with Daronte Jones and strengthening Washington‘s running back group before training camp.
4. Arizona Cardinals: Aligning with a Former Coordinator
Arizona recently hired Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator, who was Aaron Jones’s offensive leader during his successful years with the Green Bay Packers. The Cardinals face injuries to key backs, with James Conner recovering from a season-ending injury and rookie Trey Benson carrying some risk due to his injury history. Jones could pair with Benson to provide stability and experience to Arizona’s rushing attack under Hackett’s system.
3. Green Bay Packers: A Familiar Homecoming
After seven seasons in Green Bay, where he was well-regarded by fans and teammates, Jones could return as a veteran backup behind Josh Jacobs. His history with the Packers makes this a straightforward opportunity, combining familiarity with veteran depth at running back for the 2026 season.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Filling a Running Back Void
The Jaguars face a significant change in their backfield, as RB1 Travis Etienne is expected to depart in free agency. Young speedster Bhayshul Tuten showed flashes in his rookie season, but beyond him, the depth chart lacks established playmakers. Former Vikings assistant coach Grant Udinski now runs Jacksonville’s offense and shares connections with Jones on the Minnesota staff. Jones could partner with Tuten, providing experience and versatility.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: Strong Organizational Connections
Pittsburgh emerges as the top candidate for Jones’s next destination due to numerous ties. Mike McCarthy, Jones’s former head coach in Green Bay, is with the Steelers, along with Aaron Rodgers, his former quarterback. Other coaching staff connections include Brian Angelichio, who shifted from Vikings tight ends coach to Steelers offensive coordinator, and Frank Cignetti Jr., a Packers quarterbacks coach in 2018.
Adding to Pittsburgh’s interest, starting tailback Kenneth Gainwell is expected to test free agency soon, which may open significant roster space at running back. With multiple familiar faces and organizational depth, the Steelers offer a fitting opportunity for Jones to continue contributing, especially if Aaron Rodgers remains with the team for a 22nd season.
What Lies Ahead for Aaron Jones and the NFL Landscape
If the Vikings do release Jones, his experience, skill set, and connections across the league ensure many teams will explore adding him for both on-field production and locker room leadership. His next destination will likely hinge on a combination of roster needs and existing relationships.
As the offseason progresses toward free agency, watching where Aaron Jones lands will provide insight into the strategies teams are employing to balance veteran presence with emerging talent in the running back position.
