2017 NFL Draft: UTEP’s Aaron Jones lands the perfect NFL home in Green Bay

The 19th running back to come off the board in the 2017 NFL Draft is none other than UTEP legend Aaron Jones. In a draft that’s talent is deep in many areas, Jones is a well known gem and C-USA domineer who was sure to be scooped up by the end of the 5th round.

Jones fell into a perfect situation with the storied Packers organization, playing along side a potential future Hall of Fame quarterback in Aaron Rogers, and joins a young backfield competition with no clear leader sitting months away from training camp.

“It will be nice to be catching some balls from him.” Jones told members of Green Bay’s media contingent of Rogers. “I looked up to him, he’s a great quarterback, so I’m definitely excited.”

He joins Don Jackson, Christine Michael, the Packers 2017 4th round selection Jamal Williams, and Ty Montgomery in the running back room. Montgomery is a versatile offensive weapon who also lines up at wide receiver, and Michael is a proven vet putting Jones in the situation to battle for a depth chart spot as of draft day.

Williams and Jones spent time together at the Super Bowl and both are also represented by agent Leigh Steinberg.

Jones was asked by the Green Bay media what their potential combo brings to the table.

“I’m excited to work with him as well as the other backs there, and I’m excited to learn from them.” Jones said. “I feel like he (Williams) has bigger back characteristics and I have smaller back characteristics. A one-two punch, or three headed or four headed monster with they backs they already have, I’m just excited to get up there.”

Leaving UTEP a year early, Jones fell perfectly into the range where most, and even Jones and his team felt he would go. Landing with a playoff contender whose roster makeup seems to put Jones in a legitimate position to compete for a job is truly a dream come true for a workman like Jones.

“I had an official meeting with them, and they were at Pro Day.” Jones said of his pre-draft contact with the Packers.

El Paso’s favorite son, and the face of UTEP’s football program over the past four years put up some amazing numbers, and gave us some unforgettable moments as a UTEP Miner.

Although his best football is still ahead of him in a perfect situation to start what should be a long, and successful NFL career.

Good luck Aaron...