Packers lose AJ Dillon due to COVID-19 positive test

The Green Bay Packers rookie AJ Dillon has tested positive for COVID-19

The Green Bay Packers suffered a crushing 28-22 loss Sunday at home to NFC North rival Minnesota. However, in a game where Aaron Rodgers needs as many weapons as possible, he could be playing with a lighter deck.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Packers rookie running back AJ Dillon has been placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list and will not play Thursday against the San Francisco 49ers. According to a report from NFL Network, a player had tested positive for the coronavirus and would be placed on the reserved list later that morning.

The Packers recently released a statement, stating that all player meetings would take place virtually on Monday.

Dillon’s role as a rookie has been limited behind an impressive 1-2 combination of Packers’ running backs. On Sunday, the Boston College product finished with just five carries for 21 yards. For the season, Dillon has totaled 97 yards and 23 attempts, averaging 4.2 yards per run.

Could the Packers need to add a running back at the NFL trade deadline?

The Packers offensive arsenal has done their job in a limited capacity for 2020, but there needs to be consistency. Dillion’s role expanded over the past two with lead runner Aaron Jones missing time due to a calf injury. His status for Thursday’s game against the 49ers is still questionable entering a short week.

Jones’ skill set for Green Bay is much more than just your standardized running back. Over the past two years, the former sixth-round gem has acted as a No. 2 weapon in the passing game behind Devante Adams, hauling in 49 receptions for 474 yards and three touchdowns in 2019. Prior to his injury, Jones tallied 389 rushing yards, 161 receiving yards, 18 receptions and eight total touchdowns.

Could the Packers look to add a cheap runner at the deadline? If Jones is expected to miss more time, Jamaal Williams would be the team’s only active runner. Over the past two outings since taking control as the team’s starter, Williams has impressed with 216 total yards of offense and a touchdown.

Green Bay could add another receiver before Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline. According to reports late last month, the Packers were interested in Houston Texans wide receiver Will Fuller. Should Dillon and Jones be out for several weeks, the team might have no choice but to pull the trigger to remain in contention of the NFC race.