Josh Jacobs Returns to Packers, Expresses Remorse After Domestic Abuse Arrest

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs has returned to the team and spoken publicly for the first time since his offseason domestic abuse arrest, expressing remorse to his teammates and the organization. Jacobs was removed from the commissioner's exempt list last week after missing the first six weeks of the 2026 season following the May arrest.

The NFL continues to investigate the situation despite Jacobs pleading no contest to misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor criminal damage to property. The league has noted that his return to the Packers does not halt the investigation.

"Excited to be back with the team, with the guys," Jacobs told reporters. "I want to say thank you to the organization really for supporting me throughout this whole process and how everything played out. With that being said, I can't really get into a lot of things, like specifics of things, but obviously I'm remorseful, and sorry for putting this time in this situation."

Jacobs described the experience as a learning process, stating, "Sometimes, when you go through life, situations occur, and a four-second, three-second decision can alter your life honestly. With that being said, still a human being, man, still trying to learn, still trying to grow from the whole process. Actually learned a lot throughout this whole process, legally and just personally."

Under his plea deal, Jacobs was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, attend counseling, and pay restitution for property damage, with the condition that he has no further contact with the victim. The property damage charge will be dismissed if he meets these conditions for one year.

The incident leading to his arrest reportedly occurred three days prior, where Jacobs allegedly grabbed his ex-girlfriend as she tried to leave his garage and threw her to the ground. Jacobs has also filed a civil suit seeking an injunction and protective order to restrict public access to evidence, including surveillance footage of the incident, which reportedly corroborates the victim's claims.

"I know for some people this might be a stain on me and my character," Jacobs said. "I feel like I don't have to really speak on my character. A lotta people that know me in this locker room, or that's been around me, I'll let them do that. For me, man, I'm just trying to come back in here, play ball, learn from this mistake and move forward."

Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed confidence in Jacobs, stating, "I think a lot of times you get in a situation where you might not make the right decision. I think people learn from their mistakes. I think he's extremely remorseful, and I do believe he is a good person. I've been around him quite a bit. I believe in second chances."

Jacobs' absence had a significant impact on the Packers' run game, which has averaged just 59.8 yards per game with depth players like MarShawn Lloyd, Pierre Strong Jr., and Kaleb Johnson. The team, however, has maintained a strong passing offense led by quarterback Jordan Love, ranking top five in passing yards.

LaFleur indicated that Jacobs was in a good physical and mental state to potentially play against the Detroit Lions, but his availability would be determined throughout the week based on his readiness and how he feels.

Last season, Jacobs recorded 929 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in 15 games. He is trying to move forward from the situation, stating he is "just trying to be better" moving forward.