Packers RB Aaron Jones not expected to play vs Giants

The Green Bay Packers will be without their starting running back once again. According to NFL Network’s insider Tom Pelissero, Aaron Jones is not expected to face the New York Giants on Monday night. Jones is still recovering from the MCL sprain he suffered against the Los Angeles Chargers on November 19. The running back […]

Wendell Ferreira — NFL News Writer

Dec 11, 2023 9:57 AM EST

Aaron Jones — Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

#Packers RB Aaron Jones (knee) isn’t expected to play tonight against the #Giants, per source.

Jones, who is listed as questionable, is working hard to get back. He’s just not ready. So, it’ll be the AJ Dillon show again tonight.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 11, 2023

Jones is still recovering from the MCL sprain he suffered against the Los Angeles Chargers on November 19. The running back practiced throughout the week, but will miss his third consecutive game.

Aaron Jones has had a tough season injury-wise. The running back missed three games earlier this year because of a hamstring injury he suffered in week 1. He was truly healthy just for two games this season, against the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers, and had 33 carries combining these two weeks.

This year, Aaron Jones has had 66 total carries for 245 yards and two touchdowns, plus 19 catches for 169 yards and a touchdown.

Options

With Aaron Jones sidelined, AJ Dillon will be the Packers starting running back against the New York Giants. He’s been a bellcow for most of the season. The active roster still has Patrick Taylor, primarily a third-down back.

Last week, the Packers added veteran Kenyan Drake to the practice squad, pairing him with rookie Ellis Merriweather. Green Bay has the option to elevate one or both of them for gameday.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said that Drake is experienced enough, so he could help even with little time within the offensive system.

"I think he's a guy who's played enough ball,” LaFleur mentioned. “He's been around enough ball. He's done a nice job in our walkthroughs in practice. So we'll just see where we are come Monday night."

Jones is the fourth important Packers player ruled out for the game. Tight end Luke Musgrave is on injured reserve, while wide receiver Christian Watson (hamstring) and cornerback Jaire Alexander (shoulder) were declared out because of injuries.