Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs has been placed on the NFL's Commissioner's Exempt List, an administrative procedure that prevents him from practicing or attending games as his legal case proceeds.
The decision comes after Jacobs was charged last weekend with misdemeanor battery and criminal damage to property, stemming from an incident in May. He had surrendered to police on May 26 and was released the following day.
An incident report from May 23 details allegations from Jacobs' girlfriend, who claimed a physical altercation occurred after she discovered suspicious messages on his phone. She alleged that Jacobs grabbed her arm, threw her to the ground causing her to strike her head, and took her phone. Police observed redness on her face and neck and a bump on the back of her head.
While Jacobs was initially arrested on felony strangulation, domestic abuse battery, domestic abuse criminal damage to property, domestic abuse disorderly conduct, and intimidation of a victim charges, the district attorney's office ultimately filed misdemeanor charges for battery and criminal damage to property. Prosecutors stated that more evidence was needed before deciding on felony charges.
Jacobs' legal team released a statement acknowledging the placement on the exempt list, calling it an administrative procedure and not a final determination. The statement expressed Jacobs' respect for the NFL process, the Packers, and his coaches and teammates, adding that he looks forward to his return.
Despite his inability to play, Jacobs will continue to receive his full salary. The Packers will be able to clear a roster spot to bring in another player. The timing of this development is a blow to the team, with the NFL season set to begin in two weeks and Jacobs being the primary running back.
