AJ Dillon is a professional American football player who currently plays as a running back for the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Known for his powerful running style and physicality, Dillon has quickly become a key player for the Packers since being drafted.
Early Life and College Career
AJ Dillon was born on May 2, 1998, in New London, Connecticut. He attended Lawrence Academy in Massachusetts, where he excelled in football, earning a reputation as one of the top high school running backs in the country. His outstanding performances on the field led him to receive multiple college offers.
Dillon chose to attend Boston College, where he made an immediate impact. As a freshman in 2017, he rushed for 1,589 yards and 14 touchdowns, earning the ACC Rookie of the Year award. Over his three seasons at Boston College, Dillon established himself as one of the premier running backs in college football, finishing his college career with over 4,000 rushing yards and 38 touchdowns.
NFL Career with the Green Bay Packers
AJ Dillon declared for the 2020 NFL Draft after his junior season and was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the second round with the 62nd overall pick. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing around 247 pounds, Dillon’s size and strength made him an intriguing prospect for the Packers.
Rookie Season (2020)
In his rookie season, Dillon served primarily as a backup to veteran running backs Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams. He saw limited action early in the season but made the most of his opportunities when they came. Dillon’s breakout performance came in Week 16 against the Tennessee Titans, where he rushed for 124 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries in snowy conditions. This game showcased his ability to perform in challenging weather and solidified his role as a power back for the Packers.
2021 Season
With Jamaal Williams leaving in free agency, Dillon took on a more significant role in the Packers’ offense in 2021. He formed a dynamic one-two punch with Aaron Jones, complementing Jones’ speed and versatility with his power running. Dillon finished the 2021 season with over 800 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, along with 34 receptions for 313 yards and two receiving touchdowns. His strong performance helped the Packers secure the top seed in the NFC playoffs.
Playing Style and Strengths
AJ Dillon is known for his bruising running style, often referred to as a “power back.” His combination of size, strength, and balance makes him difficult to tackle, especially in short-yardage situations. Dillon excels at running between the tackles, wearing down defenses over the course of a game. He also possesses surprising agility for a player of his size, allowing him to make quick cuts and avoid tacklers.
In addition to his running ability, Dillon has improved as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, making him a more versatile weapon in the Packers’ offense. His pass protection skills have also developed, allowing him to contribute on passing downs.
Personal Life
AJ Dillon is known for his positive attitude and work ethic. He has become a fan favorite in Green Bay, not only for his on-field performances but also for his engaging personality and active presence on social media. Dillon is nicknamed “Quadzilla” due to his massive quadriceps, which have become somewhat of a legend among fans and teammates.
Conclusion
AJ Dillon has quickly established himself as a rising star in the NFL. His powerful running style and ability to perform in critical situations have made him an integral part of the Green Bay Packers’ offense. As he continues to develop his skills, Dillon is expected to play a significant role in the team’s success in the coming years. With his combination of talent, work ethic, and personality, Dillon is poised to have a long and successful career in the NFL.
