Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur expressed confidence that running back Josh Jacobs will continue to be a member of the team as the legal process surrounding misdemeanor charges plays out. Jacobs faces charges of misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor criminal damage to property stemming from an incident in May.
The NFL is reportedly investigating the matter, and Jacobs could potentially be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt list. LaFleur, however, stated his expectation that Jacobs will be with the team. "I fully anticipate him being a member of our team," LaFleur said.
Jacobs is not due in court until November 17. In his first season with the Packers, he recorded 13 touchdowns and averaged four yards per carry. The team's depth at the running back position includes backup MarShawn Lloyd, who has limited career carries.
When asked if Jacobs would be available for Week 1, LaFleur stated he could not comment definitively, citing uncertainty about his availability. "I can’t really comment on that, because I don’t know," LaFleur said.
The charges allege that Jacobs grabbed his girlfriend and threw her to the ground in his Wisconsin home, resulting in her striking her head and sustaining a lump. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the alleged incident. The Brown County District Attorney's office stated that the criminal complaint is an accusation and does not infer guilt, emphasizing that Jacobs is presumed innocent. The office declined further comment due to the ongoing nature of the case.
Attorneys for Jacobs acknowledged the charges, noting that they do not include domestic violence allegations.