Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs is currently on the NFL’s Commissioner Exempt List following misdemeanor charges related to an alleged battery incident in May. The NFL has not yet announced a suspension length, leaving his availability uncertain for the upcoming season.
Jacobs, who finished as RB12 last season, averaged 15.5 touches and four yards per carry. He was a projected safe RB2 or back-end RB1, with an average draft position in the late third to early fourth round. His performance in the first nine games of the previous season included 11 touchdowns and an average of 19.6 fantasy points, but his production declined after a bone bruise injury in Weeks 11 and 12.
Potential Backfield Beneficiaries
With Jacobs' status in limbo, rookie MarShawn Lloyd is positioned to become a primary beneficiary. Lloyd, a 2024 third-round pick, has seen his average draft position rise to high-end RB3 or low-end RB2 territory. Despite having only one NFL game of experience, Lloyd's size and pass-catching ability could translate to RB2 production if Jacobs misses an extended period. Head coach Matt LaFleur utilized Lloyd with both first and second-team units during preseason, where he recorded 17 yards on six carries and a receiving touchdown.
However, Lloyd's path to a full workload is not guaranteed. Kaleb Johnson, acquired from Pittsburgh for a 2028 sixth-round pick, could handle early-down snaps. Johnson, who struggled as a rookie with 69 yards on 28 carries across 10 games, was acquired as an insurance addition. Chris Brooks may also see time on passing downs.
Impact on Quarterback Play
Jacobs' absence could also influence quarterback Jordan Love's fantasy output. The Packers have historically operated a conservative offense, ranking near the bottom in neutral pass rate and pace. Without Jacobs, Love might increase the tempo and target his receiving options, including Christian Watson, Matthew Golden, Jayden Reed, and Tucker Kraft.
Should Jacobs return to the team, he is expected to regain his starting role, provided his backups do not experience significant breakouts in his absence. ESPN Fantasy projects Jacobs' potential return around October 30, suggesting a possible absence of approximately six games, aligning with recent NFL precedents for similar situations.