Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is defending star running back Josh Jacobs following his no-contest plea to misdemeanor charges of battery and criminal damage to property. Jacobs entered his plea on Thursday in Brown County Court, receiving a $1,000 fine and a deferred judgment agreement related to a May altercation with his former girlfriend.
The incident involved accusations that Jacobs grabbed the woman and threw her to the ground, causing her to hit her head. Surveillance footage reportedly supported the woman's account, and police noted redness on her face and neck, along with a bump on the back of her head.
When asked about the plea, LaFleur stated, "I know the guy. And I know the character of the guy. I've said it many times. And unfortunately, situations occur in life, and it's just an unfortunate situation."
LaFleur's remarks were met with significant criticism on social media platforms, with many users interpreting his comments as downplaying the severity of the charges. Critics on X, formerly Twitter, expressed disappointment, with one user writing, "Pretty unfortunate for the victim. Yes. It's sad what has become acceptable based on winning at all costs." Others directly questioned LaFleur's understanding of Jacobs' character and condemned both the coach and the team's franchise.
Jacobs' legal agreement requires him to adhere to five conditions over the next year, including no further criminal acts, no contact with the victim, supervision, counseling, and restitution payments. If these conditions are met, the criminal damage to property charge could be dismissed. Jacobs' attorneys released a statement saying the agreement signifies his acceptance of responsibility and resolution of the matter, highlighting his history of community work.
The running back joined the Packers in 2024 after previously playing for the Las Vegas Raiders. In the previous season, Jacobs ran for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns over 15 games. He was arrested on May 26 following a disturbance call at his home.
Jacobs is currently on the commissioner's exempt list while the NFL conducts its own investigation into the matter. He will continue to be paid but is prohibited from practicing or playing with the team during this period. LaFleur declined to comment further on Jacobs' roster status until the league's investigation is complete.