Summary

Aaron Jones was selected in the 5th Round (#187 Overall) in the 2017 Draft out of University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP). Jones is a highly effective, multifaceted running back who blends elite burst, receiving ability, and vision to deliver strong production. His strengths—especially in creating and generating explosive plays—and his efficiency make him one of the more reliable backs in the league. His main caution flags revolve around durability, ball security, and the fact that his style isn’t built solely on brute power or extreme size. Given smart usage and a scheme that plays to his strengths, he remains a valuable weapon.

Strengths

Here are Aaron Jones’s primary strengths:

• Outstanding burst and vision between the tackles. Jones consistently shows the ability to hit holes quickly, accelerate through creases, and maximize yards per carry. Scouts note his 10-yard split was excellent coming out of college, indicating elite short-area explosiveness. 247Sports

• Dual-threat ability as a runner and receiver. He is effective not only as a traditional rushing back but also in the passing game—catching out of the backfield, working in space, and adding value as a versatile weapon. Packers Talk

• Efficiency and production. Over his career, Jones has averaged around 4.9 yards per carry and has accumulated 7,000+ rushing yards, showing sustained productivity.

• Elusiveness and agility. While not massive, he uses change-of-direction, feet, and his body control to evade tacklers and make big plays in space. Star Tribune

Weaknesses

Even standout backs have limitations. Here are areas where Aaron Jones shows vulnerability:

• Durability / workload concerns. Some scouting reports and recent narratives point out that as he ages (he is 30 as of 2025) and has sustained injuries (hamstring, etc.), the usual running-back age curve becomes a concern. Purple Insider

• Ball security. Despite his strengths, ball security has been flagged: multiple fumbles in his career and higher risk in certain situations. 247Sports

• Not a power-running style or home-run speed specialist. While he is fast and agile, he isn't the most explosive back on deep breaks nor the biggest back to run over defenders, which can limit certain “break away” or downhill power scenarios. 247Sports

• Frame/size limitations in heavy-contact or downhill roles. At 5′9″ and around 208 lbs, he may have more difficulty holding up in extremely physical, short-yardage, or heavy power-run situations compared to larger backs. Star Tribune

Fit & Outlook

Jones is best suited for offenses that utilize a dynamic, versatile back who can run, catch, and create in space rather than purely carry a power-load of 300+ touches. For the Vikings, his skill set fits as a lead back who can exploit mismatches, mix in the passing game, and get creative snaps—not just a pure every-down grinder. Looking ahead: If Jones remains healthy, controls his touch volume smartly, and continues to be efficient, he can remain a high-impact back for a few more seasons. However, if the workload climbs too much or the offensive line/regime changes suboptimally for him, the typical RB decline curve may accelerate.