Packers Running Back Josh Jacobs Returns After Domestic Abuse Arrest

Clear Facts

• Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs was arrested in May on misdemeanor battery and criminal damage charges after an alleged incident involving his ex-girlfriend.
• Jacobs pleaded no contest to both charges, paid a $1,000 fine, and was ordered to attend counseling and have no contact with the victim.
• Jacobs has now been removed from the commissioner’s exempt list and is eligible to rejoin the team after missing the first six weeks of the 2026 season.

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs spoke publicly for the first time since returning to the team following his removal from the commissioner’s exempt list. Jacobs missed the first six weeks of the 2026 season after an offseason arrest related to domestic abuse allegations.

The NFL is continuing its investigation into the matter, but Jacobs is now cleared to practice and play with the Packers. Jacobs addressed his teammates and the media ahead of a possible return against the Detroit Lions.

“Excited to be back with the team, with the guys,” he said during his media availability. “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.”

“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.”

As part of his plea agreement, Jacobs must complete one year of conditions to have the property damage charge dismissed. He was ordered to pay restitution, attend counseling, and stay away from the victim.

“I know for some people this might be a stain on me and my character,” Jacobs added. “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 addressed the situation during his Wednesday press conference. LaFleur said he believes in second chances and sees genuine remorse in Jacobs.

“I think a lot of times you get in a situation where you might not make the right decision,” LaFleur said. “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.”

With Jacobs sidelined, the Packers have struggled on the ground, averaging just 59.8 rushing yards per game. The team is 4-2 and relies heavily on quarterback Jordan Love through the air.

LaFleur said Jacobs’ availability for Sunday’s game against Detroit will be determined later in the week based on his conditioning and readiness.

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