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A fit for the Tundra

Packers take running back in Round 2

by Mark Daniels

Be it late in games or especially late in seasons on the hardened if not frozen tundra at Lambeau Field, a power run game can be a huge advantage to the Green Bay Packers.  Even with a couple of talented running backs on the roster, the Packers added another to the mix by selecting A.J. Dillon from Boston College in the second round of the NFL draft, the 62nd overall choice.

Dillon is one of the biggest, and most productive backs in the draft class, tipping the scales at 247 pounds on his 6 foot frame.  A three year starter for the Boston College Eagles, Dillon piled up 4,382 yards rushing on 845 carries.  That rushing attempt total ranked 2nd only to Wisconsin's Jonathan Taylor's 926 over the past three years.  Taylor by the way, was taken early in the 2nd round by the Indianapolis Colts.

Scouts loved  Dillon's physical style and durability.  He missed only two games during his sophomore season because of injury despite the heavy workload.  He was the ACC rookie of the year in 2017 piling up 1589 yards on the ground including a career best 272 yards on 39 carries with four touchdowns against Louisville.   He finished his career as BC's all time leading rusher and is anxious to bring his punishment dishing style to the Packers.

Dillon met with reporters on a conference call and talked about his limited role in Boston College's passing game, pulling down only 21 receptions over the course of three seasons:

 (Audio: A.J. Dillon)

Dillon will embrace the chilly December games at Lambeau Field, he 's no stranger to winter football, growing yup in New London, Connecticut before playing college ball in Beantown.

Dillon joins a backfield led by Aaron Jones who had his breakout season in 2019, topping 1000 yards and sharing the NFL touchdown lead with 23.  There's also veteran Jamaal Williams but both are entering the final year of their original rookie contracts.  Last year's draft choice, Dexter Williams out of Notre Dame, never seemed to get comfortable with Matt LaFleur's offense and now could get pushed behind the newcomer in Dillon to the Packer running back room.

Mark Daniels

I’ve got Green and Gold in my blood having grown up in Titletown and it’s been a treat watching and covering sports from the Packers to the preps for you in Green Bay for Midwest Communications.
As a kid, I chased Packer players for autographs, I’m still chasing ‘em now for quotes on the big play or big game. I’ve had the opportunity to cover Super Bowls, the World Series, Stanley Cup Finals, NBA playoffs and major championship golf over the years but I get just as much enjoyment following the college scene at UWGB or St. Norbert, the Green Bay Gamblers and high school sports.
Our prep coverage was honored as the best of 2007 reinforcing our commitment to give these hard working boys and girls their due.
My work has also been recognized by the Associated Press and Wisconsin Broadcasters Association with several achievement awards.
Outside of the studio, off the field or away from the gym, I’ve had the pleasure of helping dozens of organizations over the years. I’ve served as race announcer and master of ceremonies at the Bellin Run almost from it’s beginning, spoken to various service clubs and hosted charity golf events or team banquets.
My wife Kari and I have raised two active children which has kept us involved in both school and club athletics for nearly 15 years. Chances are you’ll see me on a golf course when the weather’s nice. My roots are deep and that’s why I’m so enthusiastic about this area’s sporting scene, and as I often say, “Watching kids play games helps keep me young!”
Thanks for listening and see you at the game.