Aaron Jones’s tenure with the Minnesota Vikings appears to be ending soon, as reports suggest the team plans to release him before the new NFL league year begins on March 11. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Vikings intend to cut Jones along with veteran defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, moves that would free up nearly $18 million in salary cap space for 2026. However, these departures would also remove two key leaders from Minnesota’s locker room.
Jones completed two seasons in Minnesota following a seven-year stretch with their division rivals, the Green Bay Packers. After helping the Vikings achieve a surprising 14–3 record in 2024, Jones rushed for a career-high 1,138 yards and recorded seven touchdowns. His performance declined somewhat in 2025 due to injuries, posting his lowest rushing averages per carry and per touch to date. At 31 years old, Jones remains a valuable dual-threat running back and could attract interest from other NFL teams as a free agent if released.
Reuniting with the Packers Could Revitalize Backfield
One of the most logical destinations for Jones might be a return to Green Bay, where his NFL journey began as a fifth-round draft pick in 2017. During his seven seasons with the Packers, Jones amassed 5,490 rushing yards and scored 63 touchdowns, forming an effective rushing tandem alongside Jamaal Williams, another 2017 draftee. This foundation helped establish Jones as a dependable offensive weapon.
In the 2025 season, Green Bay’s rushing attack was average, with Josh Jacobs leading the ground game and Emanuel Wilson serving as his backup. Jacobs totaled 929 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, while Wilson contributed 496 yards and three touchdowns. However, with Wilson now entering free agency after Green Bay declined to place a tender on him, a vacancy exists behind Jacobs.
For a Packers team aiming to contend for both the NFC North title and a Super Bowl appearance in 2026, adding a seasoned player like Jones could bring valuable experience and stability to the backfield, rather than relying on a less proven late-round rookie. Such a move might enhance their rushing depth and overall offensive versatility.
Potential Reunion with Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh
Another compelling possibility for Jones is joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, reconnecting with former Packers teammate Aaron Rodgers. Although Rodgers has yet to confirm whether he will return for another NFL season or commit to Pittsburgh, his likely return would make a reunion with Jones plausible.
The Steelers struggled in the rushing department last season, ranking 26th in the league, partly due to Rodgers frequently opting for quick passing plays. Their running backs, Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell, failed to make a significant impact on the ground. Should Rodgers come back for another campaign, having a reliable pass-catching back like Jones, even at age 31, would provide essential options to sustain drives and manage pressure from opposing defenses.
Rodgers has expressed high regard for Jones, naming him one of his favorite teammates ever. This mutual respect points to a beneficial reunion for both players, potentially boosting Pittsburgh’s offensive effectiveness.
What’s Next for Aaron Jones in the NFL?
If Minnesota officially moves on from Jones, the running back will enter free agency with opportunities to join teams where previous relationships and proven success could pave the way for a strong comeback. A return to the Packers would offer familiarity and a chance to reinforce a promising rushing squad. Alternatively, teaming up once again with Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh could revitalize both their careers and improve the Steelers’ offense moving forward.
As the NFL offseason progresses, monitoring these potential reunions will be crucial to understanding how Jones’s next chapter unfolds and how his veteran presence could influence the title aspirations of either franchise.
More about the Minnesota Vikings informing veteran running back Aaron Jones Sr. and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave that they will be released later this month barring a trade, via @SeifertESPN:https://t.co/15HiiWTZIu
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 1, 2026
