The Minnesota Vikings taking on the Chicago Bears seemed like an easy game to expect fireworks all across the field. Particularly, the appointment of Ben Johnson as the new head coach in Chicago seemed to signal a clear shift in focus for the organization.
However, through the first half, defense has been the name of the game, with the Vikings recording just three points. The Bears have had their number, both against the pass and in the ground game. The performance by Aaron Jones, in particular, is something to behold.
What Happened to Aaron Jones?
Coming into the season perfectly healthy, it’s been a brutal first half for the superstar running back. With four 1,000-yard seasons in his tally, the Vikings expect him to put up big numbers out of the backfield, especially after he signed a two-year deal worth $20 million to return to the franchise this offseason.
Aaron Jones fist bumps JJ McCarthy after making a great throw in his debut 👊
Caleb Williams was outplaying him, and still is, but great AJ being a great teammate.
Will Reichard nailed a FG after. pic.twitter.com/15gHUkphFa
— SM Highlights (@SMHighlights1) September 9, 2025
However, in the first half, Jones could only tally six yards on three carries, consistently being snuffed out by the Chicago defensive front. It has made moving the sticks a tough task for Minnesota, who had just four first downs, and converted on none of their five third-down attempts.
Instead, he’s been outplayed by Jordan Mason, who has four carries worth 14 yards, alongside one reception for an additional seven yards through the air. It’s been a confounding decision by head coach Kevin O’Connell, as it seemed like Mason would be the one backing up Jones this season.
An eight-year veteran, Jones began his career with the Green Bay Packers, where he spent the first seven seasons of his career, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2020, a year after leading the league with 16 rushing touchdowns.
Over his career, his numbers have gone as high as 1,138 rushing yards, which he recorded last season as he became a big part of the reason why the Vikings enjoyed a 14-win campaign, in addition to the passing game featuring Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.
However, his numbers have steadily dropped from a big-play perspective. In 2022, 14.6% of Aaron Jones’ carries gained 10+ yards (4th best). That number tanked to 10.6% in 2023 and again to 9.8% last year (7th worst), his first with the Vikings.
Perhaps this slow start was already in the pipeline for a 30-year-old running back who has dealt with injuries multiple times in hi career.
