Packers Running Back Josh Jacobs At OTAs - Photo by Packers.com Evan Siegle
GREEN BAY, WI (WSAU) – The Green Bay Packers may be without one of their top offensive stars to start the season.
According to Packers GM Brian Gutekunst, who spoke to the media ahead of Wednesday’s practice, he and his staff have been preparing for the league office to place running back Josh Jacobs on the Commissioner’s Exempt List to start the 2026 season after off-season legal troubles.
Guteknust further stated that he and the coaching staff have confidence in the backs behind Jacobs, including MarShawn Lloyd, who has struggled to stay healthy since being drafted out of USC by the Packers in the 3rd round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Lloyd has recorded 6 rushing attempts for 17 yards and 1 reception for 11 yards, including 1 receiving touchdown, through the first two games of the 2026 NFL preseason. The Packers also have veterans Chris Brooks and Pierre Strong Jr. on the roster, and Guteknust added that the team would look into available free agents if Jacobs were to miss games.
Back in May, Jacobs was arrested by the Brown County Sheriff’s Office after neighbors and his ex-girlfriend called 911 to report a domestic dispute that took place in his home. Jacobs turned himself in days later and was originally charged with five felonies, including felony strangulation and suffocation; however, the Brown County District Attorney’s Office has since announced that it would be reevaluating the charges, and Jacobs has returned to practice as normal while the investigation continues.
Players currently on the Commissioner’s Exempt List include Vikings receiver Jeshaun Jones for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, and many expect former Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold to be placed on the list as he faces eight felony charges in Florida for kidnapping and armed robbery.
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