Green Bay Packers: AJ Dillon poised for a big 2021 season

AJ Dillon is poised to have a strong 2021 campaign for the Green Bay Packers as the power running back out of Boston College is forced to step up in the lineup.

For those who questioned the second-round selection of AJ Dillon, the 6-0, 250-pound running back out of Boston College, it is clear that the Green Bay Packers want to continue having a dual-threat at tailback.

Limited to touches in his rookie year after being listed behind Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams on the depth chart, Dillon still managed to make an impact with the chances he was given throughout the year as he compiled 242 rushing yards on 46 attempts (5.3 yards per carry), two rushing touchdowns, along with two receptions for 11 yards and a lone touchdown.

His most impressive outing in the 2020 season was a snowy Week 16 matchup against a white-hot Tennessee Titans where he showcased incredible strength and surprising elusiveness despite his colossal frame. On the ground, Dillon amassed 24 rush attempts for 124 yards (5.9 yards per carry) and two touchdowns against one of the top run defenses in the league at the time in the Titans.

In the 2021 offseason, the Green Bay Packers were forced to let fan-favorite running back Jamaal Williams leave in free agency. While this leaves every cheese head disappointed for losing one of the best characters in the NFL, they will be reassured in having a young and highly talented replacement in AJ Dillon.

Fortunately for Dillon, because of the departure of Williams, he is now set to be the complimentary back to superstar Aaron Jones in the backfield to recreate another dynamic duo that leaves opposing defenses quivering.

As seen throughout the last few seasons, one of the biggest needs the Packers have had was a physical running back that could withstand the more bruising defenses in the league. Yes, Aaron Jones is a stud, but it’s no secret that he’s not the biggest running back in the league. While he can certainly hold his own, there comes a time where you need a power back for a third-and-3 on a long drive.

Coming out of Boston College, one of the biggest areas of Dillon’s game that had the Green Bay Packers salivating was his superb mobility even though he has a tremendous frame.

Typically, power backs are only able to run north and south due to having more muscle and weight while the smaller elusive backs can evade east and west. Dillon, however, is one of those rare specimens who can do both exceptionally. Another area of his game that will prove to be devastating against defenses is his receiving abilities.

The Packers love to incorporate their running backs in the passing game and with some experience and comfort heading into his second year in Matt LaFleur’s offense, you will see Dillon have a bigger impact in the air attack.

If the breakout performance against the Tennessee Titans is any indicator as to what’s in store for the “Quad Father”. we’re going to see a fearsome running back duo that will easily give Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt of the Cleveland Browns a run for their money.