Packers running back AJ Dillon has been placed on season-ending injured reserve with a neck injury, prematurely ending his 2023 campaign and casting doubt on his availability for the start of the 2024 season.
Green Bay Packers running back AJ Dillon has been placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a neck injury, the team announced Tuesday. The injury, which is believed to be a stinger, occurred during the Packers' Week 17 matchup against the Detroit Lions.
Dillon was forced to leave the game early after experiencing numbness and tingling in his arm. He was immediately taken to the hospital for further evaluation, where the severity of his injury was confirmed.
Packers Lose Running Back AJ Dillon to Season-Ending Neck Injury
The injury is a major setback for the Packers, who were counting on Dillon to be a key contributor in their backfield in 2023. Dillon had emerged as one of the team's most reliable runners, averaging over 5 yards per carry in his first two seasons in Green Bay.
In 2022, Dillon rushed for 1,116 yards and 7 touchdowns, establishing himself as a formidable force in the Packers' offense. He also caught 34 passes for 313 yards and 2 touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a receiver out of the backfield.
Dillon's absence will leave a significant void in the Packers' backfield. Aaron Jones is expected to take on a larger role as the team's lead runner, but the Packers will need to find another player to fill Dillon's role as a power back and short-yardage specialist.
The Packers have a number of options to fill Dillon's spot, including Kylin Hill, Patrick Taylor, and John Lovett. However, none of these players have the same level of experience or production as Dillon, and it remains to be seen whether they can adequately fill his shoes.
The injury also casts doubt on Dillon's availability for the start of the 2024 season. Stingers can be difficult to recover from, and it is possible that Dillon may not be ready to play at the start of next season.
The Packers will need to monitor Dillon's recovery closely and make a decision on his status closer to the start of the season. In the meantime, the team will need to find a way to replace his production in the backfield if he is unable to return.
