Aaron Jones Snubbed: Vikings Face NFL’s Elite Running Backs

The Vikings will face a daunting task this season, going up against seven of the top 10 running backs in the league. According to a list compiled by ESPN, Christian McCaffrey, Breece Hall, Nick Chubb, Saquon Barkley, Jonathan Taylor, Bijan Robinson, Josh Jacobs, Jahmyr Gibbs, Derrick Henry, and Travis Etienne Jr. are the top running backs in the NFL.

Vikings schedule packed with elite running backs

However, one notable omission from this list is Vikings running back Aaron Jones, who received an honorable mention. Jones has proven himself to be a difference-maker, with an NFC defensive coach stating, “Green Bay’s offense was completely different when he was healthy.” Despite this, he lost a tight battle with Etienne for the 10th spot on the list.

Jones’ Impressive Performance

Jones finished second in the NFL On SI All-NFC North Preseason Team vote, narrowly missing out on the First Team spot to Jacobs. Gibbs came in third, followed by Detroit’s David Montgomery and Chicago’s D’Andre Swift.

In the final five games of the 2023-24 season, Jones gained at least 100 yards at 5.0 yards per carry or more, including a three-touchdown playoff game against the Cowboys. He followed up this performance with 6.0 yards per carry and 108 yards in Green Bay’s Divisional Round loss to the 49ers.

Aaron Jones during an offseason workout

The Vikings will need to be at the top of their game to contain these elite running backs. With Jones leading the charge, they might just have a chance to come out on top.

The Road Ahead

The Vikings’ schedule is packed with tough matchups against these top running backs. They will need to be prepared to face some of the best in the league. Will they be able to rise to the challenge and come out victorious? Only time will tell.

Vikings schedule packed with tough matchups