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NFL executive states the obvious about Minnesota Vikings RB Aaron Jones and it could define his 2025 season

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Tyler Forness | Last updated Jul 8, 2025 9:32 AM ET

The Minnesota Vikings are going into a pivotal season in 2025. J.J. McCarthy is taking over as the starting quarterback and the running game is going to be critical to the success of the team.

The biggest key to the Vikings' success in the running game is going to be Aaron Jones. He signed with the Vikings ahead of the 2024 season and signed a two-year, $20 million extension to be the lead back. His success will have a major impact on the Vikings in 2025.

Executive states the obvious about Aaron Jones

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler releases multiple lists every year, compiling information from interviews with executives, coaches, and scouts to determine the top 10 players at each position.

Jones didn't rank in the top 10, but he was an honorable mention, which is pretty impressive considering his age. One NFL personnel executive was quoted talking about Jones and laid it out perfectly when discussing where he's currently at.

"Classic slasher. Darts through run lanes. Plays big on the goal line. A dual threat. Love everything about him, but durability and age [30] are issues."

Creative play design doesn't need to be a lot of bells and whistles. It can just be using simple concepts modified to create chunk plays.

Kevin O'Connell has found multiple ways to get Aaron Jones the football and convert 3rd and 10+ on easy button type plays pic.twitter.com/e9Pmb2wlin
— Tyler Forness (@TheRealForno) December 19, 2024

The executive spells it out perfectly. Jones is in a really good spot with the Vikings this year, and his 2024 is a great blueprint. He gained over 1,500 yards from scrimmage and played in all 17 games. Despite that, he struggled to stay healthy throughout those games, including suffering a hip injury that hindered him for a couple weeks.

The other aspect here is the addition of Jordan Mason. The Vikings didn't trade for him for no reason. They wanted him not just for the short yardage game (which desperately needs improvement), but also to give Jones the 1b. he needs to both stay fresh and healthy.

Jones is still a very effective running back in all phases, and will be a major factor in the success of the Vikings this year.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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