AJ Dillon Bio
Algiers Jameal William Dillon Jr. (born May 2, 1998), nicknamed “Quadzilla,” is an American professional football running back who has played in the National Football League (NFL). He is widely recognized for his time with the Boston College Eagles, where he set the program’s all-time rushing yards record with 4,382 yards across three collegiate seasons. After being selected in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers, Dillon developed into a reliable power back known for his physical running style. He now plays for the Carolina Panthers of the NFL.
Standing 6 feet 0 inches tall and weighing 247 pounds, Dillon brings a rare combination of size, vision, and contact balance to the running back position. His nickname “Quadzilla” reflects his thick, muscular lower body, which has become a defining trademark throughout his football journey. Beyond the field, Dillon has built a public profile through podcasting, family life, and community ties.
AJ Dillon Career
Early Career (2017)
As a freshman at Boston College in 2017, AJ Dillon played in all 13 games and rushed for a freshman school record 1,589 yards on 300 carries with 14 touchdowns. He opened his collegiate debut with five carries for 20 yards against Northern Illinois before exploding for 272 rushing yards and four touchdowns against Louisville on October 14. His dominant first season earned him the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Rookie of the Year and ACC Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
Dillon followed his record-breaking debut with another 1,000-yard season in 2018, totaling 1,149 yards and 11 touchdowns despite missing time with an ankle injury. He became the first player in Boston College history to post back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons. In 2019, he added 1,685 rushing yards to lead the ACC, capping his career as the Eagles’ all-time leader in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, and all-purpose yards.
Boston College Breakthrough (2017-2019)
Dillon’s rise at Boston College began immediately, as he tied Keith Barnette for the school’s career rushing touchdowns record with a 9-yard rush against Clemson on October 26, 2019. A few plays later, he tied Andre Williams’ career rushing yards record set in 2013 with another 9-yard carry. Those milestones cemented his standing as one of the most productive running backs in program history.
By the end of his junior season, Dillon had piled up 38 career rushing touchdowns and 4,618 all-purpose yards, both school records. His three consecutive First-team All-ACC selections (2017, 2018, 2019) and 2019 Third-team All-American recognition made him a consensus top prospect. On December 10, 2019, he declared for the 2020 NFL Draft, forgoing his senior year of eligibility.
Green Bay Packers Era (2020-2024)
Dillon was selected by the Green Bay Packers with the 62nd pick in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and signed a four-year rookie contract worth $5.3 million. As a rookie, he played behind Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams before scoring his first two NFL touchdowns on Sunday Night Football against the Tennessee Titans in Week 16. He finished his debut season with 46 carries for 242 yards and two touchdowns.
After Williams departed in free agency, Dillon became the Packers’ second running back and emerged as a dual-threat option. In 2021, he recorded 187 carries for 803 rushing yards and five touchdowns, plus 34 receptions for 313 receiving yards and two receiving scores. He added 770 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns in 2022, followed by 613 rushing yards in 2023. A neck injury ended his 2024 season after he was placed on injured reserve on August 27.
Philadelphia Eagles Era (2025)
On March 13, 2025, AJ Dillon signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. He appeared in seven games during the 2025 season, serving as a veteran power back in the team’s rotation. His contract with the Eagles runs through 2026.
Carolina Panthers Era (2026-Present)
On March 18, 2026, AJ Dillon signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers. He wears jersey No. 28 and is listed as an active running back on the roster, continuing his NFL career in a new offensive environment.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of Dillon’s most memorable early NFL moments came on December 27, 2020, when he scored two touchdowns against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday Night Football. He later posted a two-touchdown performance against the Vikings in a Week 16 victory in 2021. Dillon also appeared in multiple Packers playoff runs, including the NFC Championship Game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following the 2020 season.
AJ Dillon Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
AJ Dillon’s grandfather, Thom Gatewood, was an All-American college football player at the University of Notre Dame and captain of the 1972 team. Gatewood is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, giving the Dillon family a deep football heritage.
Personal Life
Dillon married Gabrielle Toonen, sister of his former podcast co-host Will Toonen, on June 25, 2022, in Door County, Wisconsin. On May 2, 2023, the couple welcomed their first child, a son who shares the same birthday as Dillon. He co-hosted the “Toonen to Dillon” podcast with his brother-in-law from December 2021 to April 2022.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, AJ Dillon joined the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year deal and appeared in seven games as a veteran depth back. His role complemented the Eagles’ primary rushing attack while providing a physical option in short-yardage situations. The campaign offered Dillon a fresh start following his injury-shortened 2024 season in Green Bay.
Dillon’s prior NFL resume entering 2025 included 2,488 career rushing yards, 16 rushing touchdowns, 89 receptions, 784 receiving yards, and two receiving touchdowns through the 2024 season. His blend of pass-catching ability and between-the-tackles power remained valuable for Philadelphia’s offensive scheme.
Looking ahead, Dillon signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers on March 18, 2026, signaling continued demand for his services around the league. As he transitions into the Panthers’ backfield, he brings veteran experience, postseason pedigree, and a durable running style that has defined his career.
