Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur stated he fully anticipates Josh Jacobs remaining on the team following two misdemeanor charges filed against the running back. Jacobs faces battery and property damage charges stemming from a May incident, with an initial court appearance scheduled for November 17 in Wisconsin.
Matt LaFleur Addresses Running Back Status After Preseason Finale
Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur addressed Josh Jacobs’ future with the team following a 42-38 preseason victory over the Arizona Cardinals at Lambeau Field. Addressing reporters just a day after formal charges were filed, LaFleur confirmed that the organization plans to keep the veteran running back on the roster as his legal proceedings unfold.
Matt LaFleur, Green Bay Packers head coach
LaFleur said when asked about the player’s status.
The Brown County District Attorney’s office charged Jacobs with two misdemeanors: battery and criminal damage to property. The charges follow an initial arrest on May 26 after police responded to a disturbance at Jacobs’ home near Green Bay on May 23. According to the criminal complaint, Jacobs allegedly grabbed a woman and threw her to the ground, causing her to strike her head. Both misdemeanor counts carry maximum sentences of nine months in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
Legal Timeline and Court Appearance Scheduled for November
Jacobs is scheduled to make his initial appearance before a Brown County Circuit Court commissioner at 9 a.m. on November 17. Chesnoff, Richard A. Duchac III issued a statement acknowledging the charges while noting that they do not include domestic violence
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David Z. Chesnoff, Richard A.
the defense attorneys said in their statement, adding that Jacobs respects the District Attorney’s office and the process it followed.
While the legal process moves forward, LaFleur emphasized patience. I think you've got to let everything play out, but I anticipate him being a member of our football team,
LaFleur reiterated.
NFL Personal Conduct Review and Roster Implications
Beyond the local court system, Jacobs faces potential discipline under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy. An NFL spokesperson stated that the matter remains under review.
The league maintains the authority to suspend players before legal proceedings conclude, which leaves open the possibility that Green Bay could need to prepare for the regular-season opening without their lead running back.
When questioned about Jacobs’ availability for the Green Bay season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on September 13, LaFleur offered a direct assessment.
Matt LaFleur, Green Bay Packers head coach
LaFleur said regarding the potential for an NFL suspension.
Depth Chart and Production Behind Jacobs
If Jacobs faces a suspension or extended absence, the Packers would lean on a backfield featuring third-year running back MarShawn Lloyd, alongside Pierre Strong Jr. and Chris Brooks. Lloyd spent portions of training camp recovering from a groin injury that left him sidelined initially, but he has emerged as a bright spot in camp. Behind them, Strong spent last season on the practice squad while Brooks contributed primarily on special teams.
Jacobs enters the season following a productive 2025 campaign where he started all 15 games he played, recording a team-high 929 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns on 234 carries. His performance tied for fourth in the NFL in rushing touchdowns, and he added 36 receptions for 282 yards and another score.
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