Can Aaron Jones Do It Again for the Vikings?

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Mar 31, 2025
Sep 8, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) carries the ball as New York Giants defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches (93) pursues during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images.

The Minnesota Vikings had a relatively consistent running game last year. Aaron Jones joined the team after spending the entirety of his career with the Green Bay Packers. The problem for the veteran running back has always been remaining healthy.

Can Aaron Jones Do It Again for the Vikings?

Not only did Jones remain healthy for his new team, but he also posted the most rushing yards during a single season of his career. His 1,138 yards were more than he had rushed for in his previous seven seasons.

aaron jones
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota running back Aaron Jones Sr. (33) against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.

That production earned Jones a new contract with the Vikings. It’s fine that he’s back and brings a level of consistency at the position for the organization. The problem is wondering whether or not Minnesota is playing with fire.

Jones is now on the wrong side of 30 and will play 2025 at 31. He played in all 17 games during the season for just the second time during his career, but now has 114 games and more than 1,400 carries under his belt. Jones talked about how committed Minnesota was to his health and how a different pregame routine would keep him fresh.

Dec 1, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota running back Aaron Jones (33) reacts after the game against the Arizona Cardinals at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images.

That seemingly held up and is something he will now have a level of familiarity with for the upcoming season. He should also cede a few more carries with Jordan Mason in the fold. The former San Francisco 49ers running back is a capable starter on his own, and he’s a more youthful option than veteran Cam Akers.

If the Vikings can manage Jones’ workload and keep him fresh, then they should be in line for an even better running game after investing in their offensive line. It is fair to worry about an aging talent in a demanding position, though. Jones will always carry a level of worry with him regarding his health, and that’s something Minnesota must monitor.

Oct 4, 2024; Watford, United Kingdom; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) during practice at The Grove. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

The Vikings liked what they saw from the total package Jones brought to the table in year one, enough to re-up. It would be awesome if the longtime Packers’ great proved them right for a second straight season.

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Ted Schwerzler is a blogger from the Twin Cities that is focused on all things Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings. He’s active on Twitter and writes daily for Minnesota Sports Fan. As a former college athlete and avid sports fan, covering our pro teams with a passion has always seemed like such a natural outlet.