LaFleur says he fully anticipates Packers keeping Josh Jacobs while charges are pending

Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur has stated that there are no plans for the team to release running back Josh Jacobs, despite two misdemeanor charges he faces. The charges, stemming from a physical altercation with his girlfriend, were filed by the Brown County (Wisconsin) District Attorney’s office on Thursday. The incident in question occurred three months prior to the charges.

LaFleur expressed his intention to keep Jacobs on the team during a Friday night press conference, following the Packers' 42-38 preseason victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

The charges, which include battery and criminal damage to property, were announced by police after they were called to Jacobs' residence on May 26 to investigate a disturbance. Jacobs was subsequently arrested and released the following day. His legal team, consisting of David Z. Chesnoff, Richard A. Schonfeld, and Clarence F. Duchac III, acknowledged the charges but emphasized that they do not constitute domestic violence.

They further stated that the matter will be resolved within the court system, not through media coverage.

Josh Jacobs, who rushed for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns during the previous season, was also recognized with his third Pro Bowl selection. The 2024 season saw him accumulate 1,329 yards and 15 touchdowns. Backups for Jacobs on Green Bay's depth chart include MarShawn Lloyd, Pierre Strong Jr., and Chris Brooks. Lloyd remained healthy throughout the preseason but has only played one game over the past two years due to injuries.

Strong, who spent last season on the practice squad, has amassed 499 career rushing yards. Chris Brooks contributed 106 yards on 27 carries during the previous season, primarily through special teams contributions. The NFL has indicated that they are monitoring the case, and the Packers have confirmed their cooperation with the league.