Recently released former Vikings RB could be perfect Aaron Jones insurance

Midway through the first half of his team's Week 5 win over the New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones had to exit the contest early after suffering a hip injury.

On Tuesday, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell shared that Jones avoided a significant hip injury against the Jets, and the team is classifying the running back's availability as "week to week" moving forward. Minnesota is hoping Jones will be healthy enough by the time the team returns from its bye in Week 7 to take on the Detroit Lions, but that's not a guarantee.

In the mean time, the Vikings should probably think about improving the depth of their running back group in the near future in case Jones isn't ready for Week 7 or he has to miss time later on in the season because of another injury.

Carolina Panthers release RB who could help Minnesota Vikings improve depth behind Aaron Jones

With Minnesota currently having limited draft assets to use in a trade, the best way for the team to improve its running back room is probably through the free-agent market, especially after a notable former Vikings rusher recently became available.

On Tuesday, the Carolina Panthers made several roster moves, including the release of veteran running back Mike Boone. This season, Boone has spent time on both the Panthers' practice squad and active roster, and he's appeared in two games.

It's possible that he could end up re-joining Carolina's practice squad, but if not, Minnesota should consider signing him to their own practice squad, at the very least.

Boone, who started his NFL career as an undrafted rookie with the Vikings in 2018, has averaged 5.1 yards per carry and 3.04 yards after contact during his time in the league, according to PFF. In comparison, Minnesota backup running back Ty Chandler is averaging only 3.5 yards per rushing attempt and 1.74 yards after contact in five games this season.

Boone also has a connection to the current Vikings' coaching staff, as he and Minnesota running game coordinator/running backs coach Curtis Modkins were both members of the Denver Broncos during the 2021 season.

Signing Boone would be a low-risk move for the Vikings to make, but it could be one that helps the team still have a chance at having a productive rushing attack if Jones has to miss any time this season.

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