Josh Jacobs Eligible for Potential Green Bay Packers Return

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Josh Jacobs’ Status Creates Uncertainty for Green Bay

Josh Jacobs is reportedly coming off the commissioner’s exempt list, making him eligible to return for the Green Bay Packers next week. However, the situation remains fluid, and his availability could change.

Jacobs is still suing to prevent videos connected to the situation from being released. Although it seems reasonable to believe the NFL has reviewed the available material, it is unclear what will happen next. The league could determine that the six games he missed count as a suspension, but no definitive explanation has been provided.

For now, reports from ESPN and others indicate that Jacobs will be eligible to play. His return would affect fantasy football decisions, but a clearer indication should come if he practices with a helmet on Tuesday or Wednesday. The NFL could also provide a different update after the weekend.

The timing of the announcement adds to the confusion. The commissioner’s exempt list allowed the league to keep Jacobs away from the field with pay, and there had been talk of a six-game absence. Announcing on a Friday that he will leave the list after this week suggests the Packers may be preparing for his return.

Green Bay could use the help after averaging 60 rushing yards per game, described as the worst mark in the NFL. Lloyd has been solid, while Brooks has also received playing time. The Packers have looked better over the past two weeks than they did during the first three, raising the possibility that they simply needed time to get going.

Jacobs also struggled late last season, when Green Bay used Emmanuel Wilson frequently before Wilson signed a free-agent contract with Seattle. A healthy Jacobs would still help the offense, although he will not be available for Sunday night’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.

Micah Parsons is also expected, or at least hoped, to return to Green Bay’s defense. His return could move the needle more than Jacobs’ because the Packers may need defensive help more urgently. Until more information emerges next week, Jacobs’ status remains to be determined.