Aaron Jones Sr.

Aaron Jones returns to Minnesota this season, another year older and with more injuries and missed games on his resume. Last year, he missed five games while dealing with hamstring, shoulder, and hip injuries. When he was active, he averaged 13.3 touches and 62.3 total yards as the RB31 in fantasy points per game. Entering his age-32 season, I don't think Jones can be expected to play a full 17 games as a workhorse back. He will likely split work with Jordan Mason this season, picking up most of the passing game usage. On early downs, his best days are behind him, as he was 32nd in explosive run rate, 43rd in missed tackle rate, and 49th in yards after contact per attempt (per Fantasy Points Data). In the receiving game, he is still above average, ranking 26th in yards per route run and 24th in first downs per route run. Jones should be considered an RB3/PPR flex play for 2026.

Aaron Jones Sr. is returning to the Vikings on a one-year deal that lowered his base salary to $5.5 million.

Fantasy Impact

Jones’ return to Minnesota likely puts a damper on any potential flashy signing or draft pick the Vikings may have done otherwise. He should be a decent RB2 for the team, likely retaining the same role he has had the past two seasons.