Packers Coach Optimistic About Josh Jacobs’ Return After Groin Injury

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur told reporters that running back Josh Jacobs, who suffered a groin injury during practice earlier this month, is expected to participate in the team’s upcoming practice session. The update, reported by journalist Rob Demovsky, signals that Jacobs is on track to rejoin full-team activities after missing most of the month’s practices and being held out of the preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Newsweek

Jacobs entered the season after posting 929 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns on 234 carries across 15 games last year. In the season before that, his first with Green Bay, he recorded more than 1,329 yards and 15 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection. Those numbers underscore his role as a primary offensive weapon for the Packers.

Newsweek

With Jacobs sidelined, the Packers have been evaluating younger backs. MarShawn Lloyd is listed directly behind Jacobs on the depth chart, followed by Chris Brooks and Pierre Strong Jr. In the preseason loss to Pittsburgh, Strong Jr. logged three carries for nine yards, while Brooks recorded four carries for 13 yards; neither back scored, as all of Green Bay’s points came from field goals.

Newsweek

Getting Jacobs back to full health is viewed as crucial for the Packers’ chances in a competitive NFC North. The team’s regular-season opener is an away game against the Minnesota Vikings in early September. An earlier return from Jacobs would bolster the rushing attack and provide balance while the defense awaits the return of star linebacker Micah Parsons, who is projected to be back by Week 6. The coaching staff’s optimism suggests the Packers hope to field a complete offensive unit as the season begins.

Newsweek