Packers Secure Core Players, but AJ Dillon and Eric Stokes Remain in Free Agency Uncertainty

Green Bay Moves Swiftly to Retain Talent

The Green Bay Packers have wasted no time this offseason, making significant moves to secure key players and strengthen their roster for another playoff push. With head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst focused on continuity, the team has successfully retained several crucial pieces. However, two notable names—running back AJ Dillon and cornerback Eric Stokes—remain unsigned, leaving fans and analysts wondering what their futures hold.

AJ Dillon’s Uncertain Future in Green Bay

Once viewed as the heir apparent to Aaron Jones, AJ Dillon’s role in the Packers’ offense has been inconsistent over the past few seasons. His physical running style and ability to power through defenders made him a valuable asset, but his production in 2023 left much to be desired. With a free-agent market that has been unkind to running backs in recent years, Dillon faces a tough decision.

Green Bay has yet to make a strong push to bring him back, signaling they may be comfortable moving forward with other options. If Dillon returns, it will likely be on a short-term deal at a team-friendly price. However, with several teams in need of a power back, he could still find an opportunity elsewhere.

Eric Stokes: From First-Round Pick to Uncertain Future

Eric Stokes entered the league with high expectations after being selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. His rookie season showed flashes of brilliance, but injuries have derailed his development. Inconsistency and limited availability have made it difficult for the Packers to commit to him long-term.

With Green Bay prioritizing stability in the secondary, the team may be hesitant to invest in Stokes unless he can prove he is fully healthy and ready to contribute at a high level. If he remains unsigned, it wouldn’t be surprising to see another team take a chance on his potential.

What This Means for the Packers’ Offseason Strategy

By securing core players early, Green Bay has positioned itself well for the upcoming season. However, the unresolved situations surrounding Dillon and Stokes highlight a more calculated approach by the front office. The Packers appear willing to let the market dictate the value of these players rather than overcommitting.

With the NFL Draft and additional free agency moves on the horizon, the Packers may still look for reinforcements at both running back and cornerback. Whether Dillon and Stokes will be part of those plans remains to be seen.

Can the Packers Maintain Their Momentum?

Green Bay is coming off a season that saw them make a surprise playoff run with Jordan Love emerging as the new face of the franchise. To take the next step, they will need a balanced roster that can compete at a high level in the NFC.

If Dillon and Stokes return, they will need to prove they can stay healthy and contribute consistently. If not, the Packers must find reliable replacements to ensure their depth remains intact. As the offseason progresses, these lingering decisions could have a major impact on Green Bay’s ability to compete in 2024 and beyond.