The Green Bay Packers, perhaps more than any other team in the NFL, capture the hearts of not just their fans, but players as well. And it is not just the organization, it’s the area, the people, and the state of Wisconsin in general that has captured the fondness numerous current and former Packers. For example, Pro Football Hall of Famer LeRoy Butler, who was born and raised in Florida, made Wisconsin his forever home during and after his playing career. One current Packers player has the same goal: running back AJ Dillon.
AJ Dillon Wants to Be a Part of the Green Bay Packers for His Entire Career
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Many fans are already aware of Dillon’s self-given nickname: “The Mayor of Door County.” Prior to being drafted by the Packers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Dillon had never been to Wisconsin. After moving here, he explored the area and absolutely fell in love with Door County. It is where he bought a home, proposed to his girlfriend, and where they had their wedding.
Wisconsin is home for the Dillons, and it always will be. But Dillon hopes that his career also continues to reside in the state of Wisconsin. In an interview with Jason Wilde of the Wisconsin State Journal, Dillon said:
“I love Green Bay. Green Bay knows that. I love the Packers. The Packers know that. I’d play here until I can’t run anymore. I’ll pick up long snapper or whatever it is when I start slowing down. But there’s only so much I can control
““I’m going to have fun and enjoy all the time I have here. And hopefully, we’re back here next year. Like I always say, Green Bay is home for us whether football is here or somewhere else. We’ll be back here eventually. (But) obviously, I want to be in the green and gold.”
Of course, fans have heard countless players say similar things, only to leave in free agency or, well, whatever you want to call the Aaron Rodgers thing. However, there is something so believable and wholesome about what Dillon said. He does not leave the area in the offseason to live and workout. He stays. He is a fixture at area high school athletic competitions, leading the students’ section in various cheers that have gone viral many times.
The NFL is a business, and the reality of the situation is that there is a higher possibility that Dillon will suit up for a different team over the course of his NFL career. That being said, it sure would be nice to have someone who so genuinely wants to remain with the Packers be able to do so.
At least we know that, no matter what, Quadzilla will always come home.
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