Aaron Jones’ Fantasy Value at Risk Amid Injury and Timeshare with Mason
Aaron Jones emerged as one of the NFL’s premier running backs last season, solidifying his status as a top choice for fantasy football managers. However, the current season has not started favorably for him. He now finds himself sharing the backfield with Jordan Mason and is dealing with an injury that raises questions about his availability for Week 3. This scenario has left fantasy managers contemplating whether it’s time to part ways with the talented back.
Timeshare Complications
The introduction of Mason, a former 49ers running back, has complicated Jones’ situation. The Vikings signed Mason to lighten the load on Jones, who had an unusually high number of touches in the 2024 season, surpassing anything he experienced during his tenure with the Packers. This timeshare could potentially limit Jones’ production as he adjusts to sharing snaps.
Despite the concerns, running back remains a position where patience is often rewarded. Rushing to drop a player like Jones could be a hasty decision.
Should Fantasy Managers Drop Aaron Jones?
The answer is a resounding no—at least for now. Unless reports indicate that Jones will be sidelined for an extended period, such as a month or more, it would be unwise to release him from your roster. A brief absence of one or two weeks does not warrant discarding a player of his caliber.
Jones remains a dynamic athlete, heavily utilized in the passing game while also capable of producing on the ground. His versatility keeps him relevant, even within a timeshare. In many leagues, running back depth is a significant concern, making it essential to hold onto a player like Jones, who can still serve as a FLEX option.
Potential for a Swift Comeback
Moreover, in the unpredictable world of football, injuries can strike any player. If Mason were to experience an injury himself, Jones could quickly regain his footing, thrusting him back into the RB1/RB2 conversation.
For those in leagues that permit players ruled out to occupy an IR spot, it may be wise to monitor Jones’ injury status closely throughout the week. This strategy could provide a valuable opportunity to optimize your roster.
As the season progresses, the landscape of fantasy football can shift dramatically, and players like Aaron Jones could prove critical in navigating those fluctuations.
