Full Breakdown
Packers Navigate Josh Jacobs Legal Situation Amid Exempt List
9/1/2026, 11:44:11 PM
Core Event
Running back Josh Jacobs was formally charged with misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor criminal damage to property for an alleged incident that occurred on May 23 at his Green Bay-area home. He was arrested on May 26 and, three days later, the NFL placed him on the commissioner’s exempt list, barring him from practice and games while allowing limited facility access.
Background & Context
The video has not been released to the public or to the Packers. Jacobs signed a four-year, $48 million contract in March 2024 and is under that deal through the 2027 season.
Data & Statistics
- Contract: Four-year, $48 million (average $12 million per year).
- Salary while on exempt list: Full salary continues to be paid; no per-game forfeiture.
- Roster moves: The Packers acquired former Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson (2025 third-round pick) and are counting on MarShawn Lloyd and Chris Brooks for depth.
Official Statements & Responses
- General manager Brian Gutekunst said the organization has not viewed the garage video and will “lean on the legal process” before making roster decisions. He emphasized that the team will “take things as they come” and remain “hopeful” Jacobs returns.
- Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed personal trust in Jacobs, noting “many conversations” but acknowledging he does not know all details. He affirmed Jacobs will continue to use the team facility for meetings and non-football activities.
- NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy confirmed the matter remains under review of the league’s personal-conduct policy and declined to comment on investigative specifics.
- Jacobs’ attorneys (David Z. Chesnoff, Richard A. Schonfeld, Clarence F.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have not seen the video,” — Brian Gutekunst, general manager (q1)
- “Again, we're going to lean on the legal process and let that happen, but we'll take things as they come.” — Brian Gutekunst, general manager (q2)
- “I’m certainly hopeful that he will and certainly would expect that,” — Brian Gutekunst, general manager (q3)
- “I’m going to do that until proven otherwise.” — Matt LaFleur, head coach (q7)
- “The matter remains under review of the personal conduct policy,” — Brian McCarthy, NFL spokesperson (q8)
What’s Next
The legal case remains active, and the NFL’s personal-conduct review is ongoing. The Packers have bolstered their running-back group with Johnson, Lloyd and Brooks while awaiting the outcome of both the criminal process and any league discipline. Jacobs’ future participation hinges on the resolution of these parallel proceedings.
