Aaron Jones Injury Update: Packers Star Expected to Return for Crucial Week 8 Matchup
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – Green Bay Packers fans received some much-needed positive news this week regarding star running back Aaron Jones. After missing the last two games with a hamstring injury sustained in Week 5, Jones has returned to practice in a limited capacity and is reportedly expected to play in the Packers’ crucial Week 8 divisional matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.
Jones’s absence has been keenly felt by the Packers’ offense, which has struggled to establish a consistent ground game without its dynamic lead back. His potential return comes at a critical juncture as Green Bay looks to solidify its position in the NFC North standings heading into the midpoint of the 2025 NFL season.
The Injury and Recovery Timeline
Aaron Jones suffered a Grade 1 hamstring strain late in the third quarter of the Packers’ Week 5 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. The injury occurred during a non-contact play after a short run. While initial fears pointed towards a multi-week absence, the strain was diagnosed as relatively minor.
- Week 6 & 7: Jones was officially ruled out for the games against the Seattle Seahawks and the bye week, allowing him crucial recovery time.
- Week 8 Practice: He returned to practice on Wednesday, October 22nd, participating in individual drills and showing good movement according to head coach Matt LaFleur. While listed as “Limited” on the official injury report, his participation early in the week is a strong indicator of his availability for Sunday’s game.
Coach LaFleur stated in his press conference, “Aaron looked good out there today. We’ll continue to monitor him throughout the week, but we’re optimistic about his chances for Sunday. Having him back brings a different dimension to our offense.”
Impact of Jones’s Absence and Return
During Jones’s two-game absence, the Packers relied heavily on backup running back AJ Dillon. While Dillon performed admirably, averaging just over 4 yards per carry, the offense missed Jones’s explosive playmaking ability, particularly his threat as a receiver out of the backfield.
The return of Aaron Jones is expected to provide a significant boost:
- Running Game: His speed and agility offer a perfect complement to Dillon’s power running style.
- Passing Game: Jones is one of the best pass-catching running backs in the league, creating matchup problems for linebackers and providing a reliable safety valve for quarterback Jordan Love.
- Offensive Versatility: His presence allows the Packers to run a wider variety of offensive formations and plays.
Aaron Jones’s Performance in the 2025 Season (So Far)
Before the injury, Jones was off to a solid, if not spectacular, start to the 2025 season. Through the first five games, his stats were:
- Rushing: 75 carries for 315 yards (4.2 yards per carry) and 2 touchdowns.
- Receiving: 18 receptions for 145 yards and 1 touchdown.
While perhaps not matching the explosive numbers of his peak seasons, Jones remains a vital cog in the Packers’ offensive machine. His efficiency and dual-threat ability are crucial for sustaining drives and creating scoring opportunities.
Fantasy Football Implications
For fantasy football managers, Jones’s expected return is huge news. If he is active for Week 8, he should immediately be reinserted into starting lineups, likely as a high-end RB2 or low-end RB1, depending on the matchup against the Vikings’ defense. His return might slightly decrease AJ Dillon’s standalone value, relegating him back to a high-end handcuff/flex play role. Managers should monitor the final practice reports on Friday for any setbacks, but all signs currently point towards Jones being ready to go.
The Green Bay Packers’ offense is simply better and more dynamic with Aaron Jones on the field. His return couldn’t come at a better time as they face a critical stretch of their schedule.