Packers Running Back Josh Jacobs Activated After Exemption

Josh Jacobs, the running back for the Packers, has been activated after spending the first six weeks of the season on the commissioner’s exempt list due to his arrest linked to a past incident involving his then-girlfriend. Green Bay activated him on Saturday, and he is set to start in Week 7 against the Lions, as reported by ESPN.

Jacobs was placed on the exempt list starting August 30, which prevented him from practicing or playing while the NFL continued with its investigation.

In August, he faced charges for misdemeanor battery and criminal damage stemming from the incident that occurred in May. He eventually entered a no contest plea to both charges.

This week marked the first time Jacobs addressed reporters since the incident, expressing, “I’m remorseful and sorry for putting this team in this situation,” as noted by The Athletic.

He further reflected, “Sometimes when you go through life, situations occur, and a four-second, three-second decision can alter your life, honestly,” according to the outlet.

It’s worth noting that Jacobs could still face a suspension from the NFL for this situation, but if it’s for six games or fewer, he may have already served that time while on the exempt list.

The details from the criminal complaint suggest he allegedly “grabbed” his then-girlfriend in his garage and “threw her to the ground,” resulting in damage to her phone as well.

Jacobs conveyed the importance of his role, saying, “I know a lot of guys look up to me, a lot of guys come to me about real-life issues and things that go on in their lives. So for me, being that guy for a lot of people, it’s weird when you take that fall.”

In terms of performance, Jacobs had an impressive first season with the Packers in 2024, rushing for 1,329 yards and scoring 15 touchdowns. He followed up with 929 yards and 13 touchdowns in 15 games last season.

Prior to joining the Packers, Jacobs played five seasons with the Raiders and has a contract with Green Bay that extends through the end of the 2027 season.

The Packers are currently riding a three-game winning streak, holding a 4-2 record as they prepare to face the Lions this Sunday.