Why Isn’t Josh Jacobs Playing, and Why Isn’t Micah Parsons Playing vs. Falcons for Packers?

The Green Bay Packers face the Atlanta Falcons in a Thursday Night Football game at Soldier Field on January 10, 2026. However, two key players are not part of the starting lineup: Josh Jacobs and Micah Parsons. Jacobs' absence means that Kaleb Johnson, Marshawn Lloyd and Chris Brooks are stepping up to fill the running back role.

Parsons' absence has an impact on the Packers' pass rush, which forces other players to step up. If Atlanta wants to defeat the Packers, this period would be a prime opportunity for them to capitalize on it, due to the Packers' lack of firepower.

Josh Jacobs has been placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List due to off-field issues, specifically misdemeanor battery and criminal damage. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was fined $1,000. He will attend a follow-up hearing regarding his property charge. The NFL is currently investigating Jacobs under its Personal Conduct Policy.

His absence is essentially counting towards any potential suspension that may occur. When he does return, his time on the exempt list will be credited, meaning if he gets suspended six games, he could be eligible to return in Week 7 against the Lions.

Micah Parsons has been recovering from an injury since the start of the season. The Packers acquired him from the Dallas Cowboys in a blockbuster trade in 2025, but he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee, forcing him to miss the entire season. The Packers placed him on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list at the beginning of the season, which means he has to miss at least the first four games.

During this time, Parsons has been providing advice to his fellow pass rushers, almost like a coach. The Packers will definitely be waiting for his return, as he is one of the most impactful players in the entire NFL.