Report: Mutual interest between Miami Dolphins and RB Aaron Jones

The Miami Dolphins rushing games failed to fully live up to the expectations set in 2020 after the team invested heavily at running back with the additions of Jordan Howard and Matt Breida — plus a slew of new offensive linemen added to the picture. And while the offensive backfield had a productive player in Myles Gaskin on the roster, the Dolphins find themselves in familiar territory once again this offseason: looking for upgrades in the run game.

And, according to one report, the team may have their eye on a big free-agent fish to help bolster the effectiveness of the running game: Green Bay Packers running back Aaron Jones. The report, which comes from Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, suggests that there is mutual interest between both sides. If the Packers let Jones hit free agency, the Dolphins are presumably going to be involved.

Jones has been one of the NFL’s better backs in recent years. In 2019, he accounted for 1,558 yards from scrimmage and 19 touchdowns in 16 games while averaging 5.5 yards per touch (and 4.6 yards per carry). In 2020, Jones logged 1,459 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns in 14 games (with a whopping 5.5 yards per carry). In all, Jones would be a massive upgrade for the Dolphins — but the team would be paying a hefty price as well. Spotrac.com forecasts Jones to command north of $14.5 million per season in free agency — which equates to nearly half of the Dolphins’ projected salary cap space for this offseason.

One would have to assume the only way Jones, who just turned 26-years old, actually lands in Miami is if his actual market value comes up well short of that dollar amount. And, given the reduced salary cap this offseason, it very well may.

With the franchise tag window now open, keep an eye to the north. If Jones isn’t designated as a franchise tag recipient, South Florida will be on Aaron Jones watch come the middle of next month.