Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur is probably going to frustrate a lot of fantasy football owners this fall.
The Packers’ playcaller isn’t going to be shy about using all of his running backs during the 2020 season.
“We feel really confident with our running back core as a whole unit. I think you’re going to see all of those guys in the mix. They all bring something a little different to the table,” LaFleur said after Sunday’s scrimmage at Lambeau Field.
Fourth-year veterans Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams both return after combining for almost 2,300 total yards and 26 total touchdowns during the 2019 season. Each figures to play a significant role again in 2020, with Jones as the lead back and a top offensive weapon and Williams satisfying any role LaFleur needs, whether it’s as a runner, receiver or blocker.
And then there’s 247-pound rookie A.J. Dillon, who could give the Packers offense another flavor out of the backfield once he begins to master the little things about the position.
“I think A.J. has shown improvement. Like any young back, there is a lot to learn in this offense, just in terms of the pass game, in pass protection. Certainly, he has some great skills as a runner. He’s gotta have the mindset that he better be ready to roll,” LaFleur said.
The Packers have used Dillon as both a between-the-tackles runner and as a receiver during camp, helping highlight their desire to make him an all-around threat.
The Packers also have Tyler Ervin, who could be used as a receiver/running back hybrid in 2020, and Dexter Williams, a sixth-round pick in 2019, who is physically talented and likely improved after struggling to get on the field as a rookie.
This is a deep, talented position group, and LaFleur – who wants to feature the position while also keeping everyone as healthy as possible over what will be a grueling season – intends to use them all.
Last season, Jones played 663 snaps, or roughly 61 percent of the offense’s total. Williams played 373 snaps, or roughly 35 percent. With Dillon in the mix, and Ervin likely to play a role on offense, the splits could be more even in 2020.
At the end of last season, LaFleur mentioned he wanted to find a quality third option behind Jones and Williams, both to keep them fresh and have a backup plan in case of injury. He has plenty of options now.
Fantasy football players might curse the development, but the Packers are likely going to spread out snaps and touches amongst a deep running back group this season.
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