Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed on Monday that running back Josh Jacobs will commence full-team practices on Wednesday, October 19, signaling a pivotal moment for the struggling offense. Jacobs was removed from the NFL commissioner’s exempt list following a one-game roster exemption granted by the league, clearing the path for his potential return to action against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on October 25. This development offers immediate relief to a Packers running game that has lacked consistency, with LaFleur explicitly stating he has not ruled out Jacobs playing in the upcoming matchup.
Matt LaFleur signals RB’s imminent return as Green Bay seeks to revive stalled rushing attack.
Jacobs’ availability stems from his placement on the exempt list on August 30, following his no-contest plea to misdemeanor battery and criminal damage to property charges related to a May altercation. Although the 29-year-old was prohibited from participating in official practices, games, or team activities during this period, he continued to receive his full salary. Crucially, Jacobs was permitted to attend position group meetings and utilize team facilities for individual workouts, ensuring he maintains his conditioning and game knowledge. This limited access means he will not be returning from a complete physical or mental standstill, reducing the risk of a slow ramp-up period.
The return of Jacobs, alongside guard Aaron Banks, provides the Packers with a much-needed boost to their offensive line and backfield dynamics. The one-game roster exemption technically expires on Monday, October 26, but the immediate clearance for practice allows the coaching staff to evaluate his readiness and integrate him into the offensive scheme ahead of the Lions game. For a team looking to stabilize its ground game, having Jacobs active for even a single week could prove decisive in regaining rhythm and effectiveness in the red zone.
Source: Yahoo Sports
