Packers GM reveals franchise tag strategy with Aaron Jones

The Green Bay Packers have not yet ruled out using the franchise tag on running back Aaron Jones.

The Green Bay Packers have a decision to make regarding Aaron Jones this offseason. The former fifth-round pick needs a new deal and if he doesn’t accept the team’s best offer, he is a clear franchise tag candidate.

Jones is a former fifth-round pick who has emerged as a key player on offense for the Packers. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in two straight seasons and has over 1,000 receiving yards total in his fourth seasons with the team.

Packers GM Brian Gutekunst has one week to figure out if the tag will be placed on Jones. He recently offered up his view on the situation.

Packers GM gives a political answer on Aaron Jones

So Gutekunst said he prefers not to use the franchise tag, but still would. That doesn’t exactly provide much clarity for fans wondering Jones’ fate for the 2021 season.

Such a statement is really all fans will ever get out of a GM. He is not going to tip his hand and is likely working with Jones’ agent to see if an extension can get done before the March 9 tag deadline.

Rumors have floated around this offseason that Jones turned down major money. Doing so early in the offseason makes sense, as Jones could hope for a bigger offer and put pressure on the Packers before free agency begins. But it also opens up the possibility of being tagged.

Jones hired Drew Rosenhaus as his agent late last year and that may indicate a desire to hit the open market and let a bidding war begin. That means Gutekunst may have to figure out if Jones would even sign a franchise tag. He has one more week to figure all of this out.