The wider picture
AJ Dillon, a former standout running back for the Green Bay Packers, has signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers. This move comes after a challenging season in which Dillon played for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he struggled to make a significant impact on the field. Prior to his time with the Eagles, Dillon had established himself as a formidable player in the NFL, particularly during his tenure with the Packers.
Dillon’s journey in the NFL has seen its share of ups and downs. He missed the entire 2024 season due to a neck injury, which raised concerns about his future in the league. However, he made a return in 2025, playing in seven games for the Eagles, where he managed to rush for only 60 yards on 12 carries. His performance was notably diminished after the Eagles acquired Tank Bigsby, which limited Dillon’s opportunities to contribute.
During his first five seasons with the Packers, Dillon showcased his potential, accumulating 2,428 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns from 2020 to 2023. His career-high rushing yards in a single season came in 2021, when he rushed for 803 yards. Dillon’s impressive college career at Boston College, where he led the ACC with 1,685 rushing yards in his final season, further solidified his reputation as a talented running back.
Upon signing with the Panthers, Dillon expressed his excitement on social media, stating, “Let’s go!!!” and “Keep Pounding,” signaling his eagerness to contribute to his new team. The Panthers are looking to bolster their running game, especially after losing Rico Dowdle, a 1,000-yard rusher, to the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency. Dillon’s addition could provide the Panthers with a much-needed boost in their backfield.
As Dillon transitions to his role with the Panthers, observers are keen to see how he will adapt after a season of limited play. The Panthers are hopeful that Dillon can regain his form and become a significant part of their offensive strategy. His experience and skill set could be invaluable as the team looks to improve its performance in the upcoming season.
While Dillon’s past performance raises questions about his current capabilities, the Panthers are optimistic about his potential. The team is looking to build a competitive roster, and Dillon’s signing is a step in that direction. His previous success in the league suggests that he has the ability to make an impact if he can stay healthy and find his rhythm.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific terms of Dillon’s contract, but the one-year deal indicates that both parties are looking for a fresh start. As the Panthers prepare for the new season, all eyes will be on Dillon to see if he can reclaim his status as a top running back in the league.
