Full Breakdown
Packers Coach Says Running Back Josh Jacobs Will Remain on Team Amid Misdemeanor Charges
8/29/2026, 7:44:56 PM
Core Event
Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said he expects running back Josh Jacobs to stay on the roster despite the player being charged with misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor criminal damage to property. The charges stem from an alleged altercation at Jacobs’ home near Green Bay on May 23. Jacobs was arrested on May 26 and initially faced five counts, including a felony, but formal charges were filed later as the two misdemeanors.
Background & Context
The Brown County (Wisconsin) District Attorney’s office filed the misdemeanor charges after reviewing evidence that includes a police-observed injury to the alleged victim and surveillance video of the incident. Jacobs’ attorneys—David Z. Chesnoff, Richard A. Schonfeld, and Clarence F. Duchac III—issued a statement noting that the charges “do not include domestic violence” and that the allegations will be addressed in court, not in the media. Jacobs’ initial court appearance is scheduled for November. The NFL has confirmed the matter “remains under review” and may act before the legal process concludes.
Data & Statistics
- 2024 season (Jacobs’ first with Green Bay): 1,329 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns.
- 2025 season: 929 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns.
- Jacobs averaged four yards per carry in the most recent season.
- Backup running backs on the depth chart include MarShawn Lloyd, Pierre Strong Jr., and Chris Brooks.
Official Statements & Responses
- Matt LaFleur reiterated that the team will respect the legal process and that Jacobs remains part of the roster. He declined to predict Jacobs’ availability for the season opener.
- NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said the league is closely monitoring developments and that the case is under review.
- Brown County District Attorney David L. Lasee emphasized that a criminal complaint is a formal accusation and does not imply guilt, noting the presumption of innocence for Jacobs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I fully anticipate him being a member of our team,” — Matt LaFleur
- “I think you’ve got to let everything play out, but I anticipate him being a member of our football team,” — Matt LaFleur
- “Duchac III, who said, "The Brown County District Attorney has reviewed evidence and elected to file misdemeanor charges against Josh that do not include domestic violence.” — Clarence F. Duchac III
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the initial charge count: some reports note Jacobs was arrested on five counts, including a felony, while the formal filing lists only the two misdemeanors. No source provides a definitive update on whether the felony charge was dropped or remains pending, leaving a gap in the public record.
What’s Next
- Jacobs’ first court appearance is set for November, coinciding with the Packers’ bye week.
- The Packers open the regular season on September 13 against the Minnesota Vikings.
- The NFL’s disciplinary review continues; the league may impose a suspension before the November hearing, but no decision has been announced.
The situation remains fluid as legal and league proceedings progress, with the Packers’ roster planning contingent on the outcomes of both.
