As the Minnesota Vikings prepared for their game against the Chicago Bears, veteran running back Aaron Jones Sr. took part in the coin toss for the first time since being named a team captain. This moment held special significance, as it was orchestrated by his 5-year-old son, Aaron Jones Jr., who encouraged his father to embrace this honor. Standing on the sidelines of U.S. Bank Stadium, Jones Jr. expressed his belief that his father deserved to be at the center of the action.
The bond between father and son has deep roots, shaped by Aaron Jones Sr.‘s own upbringing. Both his parents, Alvin and Vurgess Jones, retired from the U.S. Army as sergeant majors and instilled in him the values of discipline and moral clarity. This strong familial foundation remains central to Jones’s approach to parenting. He reflected on his father’s legacy, stating, “If I could be half the man my dad was for me, then I know I’ll have done an amazing job.”
Jones carries the weight of his father’s passing, which occurred due to complications from COVID-19 on April 6, 2021. Just over a year later, his son was born on April 17, 2020. The juxtaposition of these life events has profoundly impacted Jones, who described his grief as a tidal wave that at times left him numb. “It’s almost like God gave a life to me and took a life from me,” he stated, reflecting on the duality of joy and sorrow in his life.
In the wake of his father’s death, Jones found solace in his relationship with his son. He dedicated time and energy to Junior, ensuring that he would be a strong presence in his life, much like his father had been for him. “He definitely got me through it,” Jones remarked about his son, acknowledging that this bond has strengthened their relationship. He began bringing Junior to work, a practice that extends beyond his time with the Green Bay Packers to his current role with the Vikings.
Jones likens this experience to his childhood, where he often accompanied his father during military life. He recalled, “I was 5 years old running with the soldiers,” highlighting the importance of shared experiences in nurturing their connection. Now, he brings Junior along to the TCO Performance Center, where they bond over workouts and practice routines. Junior’s enthusiasm to visit the facility has become a regular part of their lives.
Jones shared that their time at the performance center often includes playful exchanges, such as challenging each other to partake in cold tub sessions. “He holds me accountable,” Jones explained, illustrating how their relationship fosters mutual motivation. The younger Jones has already made a name for himself among the Vikings, with teammates noting his spirited nature and resemblance to his father. Star receiver Justin Jefferson commented, “He acts just like his dad… you can definitely tell Aaron got him into that running back mindset.”
As Junior begins to create his own memories of this unique lifestyle, Jones emphasizes the importance of gratitude and hard work. He hopes to instill in his son the values that guided him throughout his career. “He’s out here calling these guys his uncles,” Jones said, recognizing the significance of the relationships that have developed in his professional life.
On game days, Jones makes a concerted effort to include his son in his pregame and postgame routines. Their conversations mirror those he once had with his father, creating a chain of tradition that honors his legacy. “He’ll be like, ‘I’m proud of you Daddy,’” Jones said of Junior’s supportive words, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share this journey with his son.
As the Vikings prepare to face the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, Jones will stand at midfield for the coin toss, carrying his father’s spirit with him. “I’m blessed that he’s been here with me,” he said, acknowledging the vital role his son plays in his life. In navigating the challenges of grief, Jones has found healing through his relationship with Junior, creating a legacy that honors the past while embracing the future.
