Josh Jacobs hit the practice field for the Green Bay Packers on Wednesday, his first time with the team since training camp. This move comes after he spent time on the NFL’s commissioner exempt list due to a domestic violence incident where he pleaded no contest to charges of battery and criminal damage to property. He’s not officially on the 53-man active roster just yet, with the Packers having the option for a one-week exemption, but head coach Matt LaFleur’s comments make it clear Jacobs will be up there soon. The league’s investigation is still ongoing, but both LaFleur and Jacobs finally spoke up about the situation.
Jacobs Speaks on “Six Games” and Remorse
It’s been a minute since Jacobs had a chance to talk to the press, and he didn’t hold back on his feelings about the time he missed. He came out swinging, expressing his excitement to be back with the guys and thanking the organization for their support through “this whole process.” While he couldn’t get into the real nitty-gritty specifics, he made it clear: “I’m remorseful and sorry for putting this team in this situation.” Jacobs spoke about how quickly life can change: “Sometimes, when you go through life, situations occur. A four-second, three-second decision can alter your life.” He emphasized he’s “still a human being” trying to learn and grow, stating he learned “a lot throughout this process, legally and just personally.” For him, it’s about moving forward and “trying to be better.” He knows this might be a “stain” on his character, but he believes the people who know him “in this locker room or has been around me” can speak to who he really is. Jacobs just wants to “come back in here and play ball, learn from this mistake and move forward.” He never doubted he’d play again, but the surprising part for him? It took six games. “I think 6 games is a lot, honestly. But that’s not really up to me to decide. I’m grateful to be playing, so that’s not something I’m really arguing or petitioning.”
LaFleur Believes in Second Chances
Coach LaFleur, who had previously been tight-lipped until the league’s investigation made progress, finally shared his thoughts on Jacobs’ return. He had said he wouldn’t discuss it until the investigation was finished, but with Jacobs practicing, he weighed in. LaFleur seems to be in Jacobs’ corner, despite everything. “I think a lot of times you get into a situation where you might not make the right decision,” LaFleur said, hinting at the situation. He added, “I think people learn from their mistakes, and I think he’s extremely remorseful.” The coach also vouched for Jacobs personally, stating, “I do believe that he’s a good person. I’ve been around him quite a bit. I believe in second chances.” It’s clear the Packers are ready to welcome their running back back onto the field.
What does this mean for the Packers? Jacobs is back on the practice squad, and it looks like his return to the active roster is imminent. His comments about the six games being “a lot” tell you where his head is at, but for the team, getting him back on the field is the next step. Everyone will be watching how he performs and how the team integrates him as he tries to move past this incident.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Acme Packing Company.
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