Packers Stand By Jacobs Amid Charges
Packers coach says team plans to keep Jacobs while he faces misdemeanor charges.
The update
Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur says the team has no plans to release running back Josh Jacobs. Jacobs faces two misdemeanor charges: battery and criminal damage to property. The charges stem from an incident at his home in May. LaFleur stated, “I fully anticipate him being a member of our team.” The comments came after the Packers’ preseason finale against the Arizona Cardinals on Friday night.
Why it matters
The legal situation creates uncertainty for the Packers’ roster. While the team appears willing to keep Jacobs, the NFL maintains a strict stance on domestic violence cases. The league could still impose its own suspension regardless of the team’s stance. This means the Packers might have to prepare to open the season without Jacobs if league action is taken.
What to watch
Watch for any potential NFL action against Jacobs. The league does not require legal proceedings to conclude before imposing discipline. The Packers open their regular season on September 13 at Minnesota. Jacobs’ availability for that game could be affected by league decisions. He has an initial court appearance scheduled for November 17.
Sources
- Associated Press — details about Jacobs' charges and the team's position
- espn.com — confirming LaFleur's statement about Jacobs' future with the team