Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur faced the media with a firm stance after running back AJ Dillon was placed on the injured list. Dillon, a key figure in LaFleur’s strategy for a dynamic offense this season, suffered a neck injury during a joint practice with the Denver Broncos on August 16, leading to a significant change in the team’s offensive plans.

The Packers originally planned for Dillon to play a versatile role in the 2024 season. They wanted to build on his solid performance in 2023, when he rushed for 613 yards and scored two touchdowns while also catching 22 passes for 223 yards. LaFleur had envisioned using Dillon’s skills in a variety of offensive formations, including double-halfback formations that were effective last year.

“It’s discouraging because we had a pretty clear idea of ​​what he could do,” LaFleur explained. “His versatility is what excited me the most, as we used him in some of our two-halfback sets last year.”

Packers face difficult decisions as AJ Dillon’s injury leads to roster adjustments

AJ Dillon’s neck injury, initially described as painful and reminiscent of previous health problems, prompted the team to take a more cautious approach. After further medical evaluations, Dillon was placed on the injured list, thus suspending him for the entire season, to prevent any deterioration in his condition.

LaFleur stressed the importance of the team adapting given the loss of such a key player. “It certainly leaves a void for us. But that’s life in the National Football League. You have to adapt or die, so we better adapt,” he noted.

In response to Dillon’s absence, the Packers are evaluating whether other talent on their roster can fill the void. Attention is turning to rookie MarShawn Lloyd, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury since a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns on August 10. Although Lloyd was not placed on the injured list, his status for the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles is still uncertain. The Packers hope Lloyd can return to practice soon and potentially fill the role envisioned for Dillon, giving the team much-needed depth and versatility in its running game.

The loss of AJ Dillon is a major setback for the Packers, who were hoping to bring a new dimension to their offense with his expanded role. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they will need to adapt quickly and find alternative ways to compensate for Dillon’s absence, whether it’s by bringing in other players like Lloyd or by better tailoring their offensive strategies to the personnel available.