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NFL 2022: 5 Running backs ready to have a breakout season

By Michael Johnson

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 20: David Montgomery #32 of the Chicago Bears runs against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field on December 20, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. The Vikings defeated the Bears 17-9. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 20: David Montgomery #32 of the Chicago Bears runs against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field on December 20, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. The Vikings defeated the Bears 17-9. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 22: Running back Aaron Jones #33 of the Green Bay Packers carries the ball as he avoids a tackle by defensive back Dontae Johnson #27 of the San Francisco 49ers during the 1st quarter of the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Lambeau Field on January 22, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

NFL RB no. 1: Aaron Jones, Green Bay Packers

You read it here first. Aaron Jones will be the heart of the Green Bay Packers.

Sure the reigning MVP is the face and the brains, but this is the year of Jones. Last season was a down year for the former Pro Bow back.

Over the last two years, he failed to reach double-digit touchdowns. In 15 games, he rushed for 799 yards and four scores — five less than the year before. Part of Jones’s downfall was the maturation of A.J. Dillion, but even with his rise, Jones will dominate.

Without Devante Adams, Rodgers and offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich will likely lean on the running game more for support.

Rodgers has nothing to prove coming off an MVP season, so why not use Jones as much as possible? Jones an do it all. The former first-round pick is a solid receiver out of the backfield.

Last season he hauled in 52 catches — expect that to increase. Don’t be surprised if he halls in upward of 70 passes and over 600 yards.

On the ground, he’ll probably see more carries which could see him rush for at least 1,000 yards. Jones will dominate as the Packers ride the running game into the playoffs.

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