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GREEN BAY, Wisconsin – Aaron Jones had something special planned for his first game at Lambeau Field since his father died in April.
The Green Bay Packers running back stepped out for the home opener against the Detroit Lions on Monday night wearing a necklace containing the ashes of Alvin Jones Sr. in a football-shaped medallion.
On his way to his four TD game in the Packers’ 35-17 win, Jones lost his collar. He believes it happened during his second quarter touchdown – the second of three touchdowns to be received to go along with a rushing score – and despite extensive post-game search, he was not found.
“If there was one place to lose him, this is where my dad wanted me to lose him,” Jones said, referring to the end zone. “So I know he’s smiling.
Jones has always made a point of meeting his father in the stands before the game. On Monday, there were 15 family members in the stands, including Jones’ mother and brother, Alvin Jr. (a linebacker who spent time with the Packers during the offseason on an extended tryout).
“I used to turn around and see my dad in the stands and smile to know it’s okay,” said Aaron Jones. “So when I saw them, I was fine.”
Alvin Jones Sr. died of complications from COVID-19 at the age of 56. When asked what he would have said to his father after a game like Monday’s, Aaron Jones replied, “Go home and tell him I did it, dad.”
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