Josh Jacobs has admitted he made a mistake and apologized to the Green Bay Packers as he prepares to return to the field. The running back addressed the situation publicly for the first time Wednesday after spending the first six weeks of the 2026 NFL season on the commissioner’s exempt list.
Jacobs also acknowledged that he was never concerned his NFL career was over, despite the uncertainty surrounding his absence. He is now eligible to play, although the Packers have not confirmed whether he will suit up against the Detroit Lions on Sunday.
According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, Jacobs expressed remorse for the situation and said he was grateful to the organization for supporting him throughout the process.
“I’m remorseful and sorry for putting this team in this situation,” Jacobs said, acknowledging the impact of his actions on the organization. He also said he was trying to learn from the mistake and move forward.
Jacobs spent six weeks on the exempt list following a May domestic incident that resulted in him pleading no contest to two misdemeanor charges. The NFL’s investigation into a potential violation of its personal conduct policy remains ongoing, and the league has not announced whether he will face additional discipline.
Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
His potential return comes as Green Bay tries to improve its ground game. The Packers entered Week 7 averaging 59.8 rushing yards per game and 2.9 yards per carry, leaving room for improvement after playing without their established lead back.
Jacobs has recorded at least 1,000 rushing yards in four NFL seasons. His experience could help Green Bay’s offense, but he has not played in a regular-season game this year, and the team must determine how quickly he can return to game action.
The Packers enter the weekend at 4-2, second in the NFC North behind the 5-0 Minnesota Vikings and ahead of the 4-2 Chicago Bears. Green Bay is also sixth in the NFC playoff standings, making Sunday’s divisional matchup important as the team tries to keep pace.
The Packers visit the Lions on Oct. 25. Jacobs said his goal is to be ready, but his availability will depend on the team’s decision after a full week of practice. The NFL’s investigation also remains unresolved, meaning his return to football does not settle the question of potential discipline.
ALSO SEE:
- Dion Dawkins Watches Tape, Explains Josh Allen’s “Madness,” and Breaks Down the Bills’ 5-1 Start
- Best Week 7 NFL Picks: Experts’ Best Bets Against the Spread
- Caleb Williams Continues to Prove He Was Worth All the Hype
- Fantasy Football Week 7 Wide Receiver PPR Rankings: Which WRs Should You Start?
