Packers 4th Quarter Collapse: AJ Dillon, Joe Barry and 3 Other Takeaways

Sep 17, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker (7) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) from behind during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker (7) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) from behind during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 17, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Green Bay Packers running back AJ Dillon (28) is tackled by Atlanta Falcons linebacker Kaden Elliss (55) in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Green Bay Packers running back AJ Dillon (28) is tackled by Atlanta Falcons linebacker Kaden Elliss (55) in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

AJ Dillon Isn’t the Answer

AJ Dillon entered the game with a major opportunity. He was the clear lead back with Aaron Jones sidelined with a hamstring injury and had a chance to prove he’s worthy of a starting spot in 2024 and moving forward. Unfortunately, he reaffirmed why he’s a backup.

Dillon carried the rock 15 times for a putrid 55 yards (3.7 yards per carry) and only had a long of eight yards. He looked even worse when watching the game, clearly lacking burst or the ability to break any tackles. For a big, bruising running back, he sure runs soft.

We’ve seen his yards per carry average fall every year of his career and he’s likely looking at his last season in Green Bay. As a free agent after this season, the Packers haven’t seen any reason why Dillon should be a part of their long-term plans.