Analysis: Schefter adds that this contract includes $13 million in guaranteed salary, and his $10 million average annual salary will make Jones the sixth-highest-paid running back in the NFL by this metric. Jones signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Vikings after being let go by Green Bay last offseason and put up a career-best 1,138 rushing yards across 17 regular-season games in 2024. The 29-year-old dealt with numerous injuries throughout the year including a lingering quad issue that carried into the playoffs. Yet, he logged a career-high 255 rushing attempts and was an integral piece of Minnesota's offense all year. The Vikings appear set to begin their transition to J.J. McCarthy (Achilles) as the team's long-term starting quarterback moving forward, as last year's starter Sam Darnold will likely get a significant payday elsewhere with numerous teams looking for immediate help at starting quarterback. Jones' return will provide some significant stability to the Vikings' offense whether or not McCarthy is ready to step in under center by Week 1. With Cam Akers also currently slated to hit free agency, it's likely Minnesota will look to add a new No. 2 running back this offseason who can help share the load with Jones moving forward.

Analysis: Jones didn't look encumbered by the quadriceps injury he'd been dealing with since the Week 18 loss to the Lions, but his opportunities were limited by game script. The veteran's modest final numbers somewhat belied the fact he was a very good fit overall in his first Vikings season, as Jones' rushing yardage total was a new personal best and his receiving yardage tally was the second highest of his career. Jones is due to hit unrestricted free agency when the new league year begins in March after playing 2024 on a one-year, $7 million deal, but there may be mutual interest in a return to Minnesota.