Josh Jacobs Targeting Packers Practice Return Next Week
Josh Jacobs Might Return to Practice Soon: What Packers Fans Need to Know
What Happened?
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs has been sitting out practice for over a week due to a groin injury. But there’s good news on the horizon! Head coach Matt LaFleur shared an update on Friday that has fans feeling optimistic.
The Timeline: What We Know So Far
- Jacobs got hurt and has missed more than a week of practice
- Coach LaFleur spoke to reporters on Friday and gave a positive update
- Possible return: Jacobs could be back at practice next week
- Likely timing: If he returns, it would be late in the week (Thursday or Friday)
- Preseason schedule: The Packers played their first preseason game on Thursday
- Next game: They play again next Friday
IMPORTANT POINT
Even if Jacobs returns to practice next week, he almost certainly won’t play in Friday’s preseason game. The team wants to take it slow and make sure he’s 100% ready for the regular season.
Why Jacobs Matters: His Numbers Speak for Themselves
In his first two seasons wearing the Green and Gold, Jacobs has been a workhorse:
- 535 rushing attempts — that’s a lot of carries!
- 2,258 rushing yards — over 2,000 yards on the ground
- 28 rushing touchdowns — finding the end zone regularly
- 72 catches — he’s a threat as a receiver too
- 624 receiving yards — adding value through the air
- 2 receiving touchdowns — scoring in multiple ways
What This Means for the Packers
| Good News | Smart Caution |
|---|---|
| Jacobs is progressing well | Preseason games don’t count in standings |
| Return to practice is close | No need to risk re-injury |
| He’ll be fresh for Week 1 | Team has other capable backs for now |
Summary
Josh Jacobs has been out with a groin injury for over a week, but Coach Matt LaFleur says he could return to practice next week (likely late in the week). Since the Packers play a preseason game next Friday, Jacobs probably won’t suit up even if he practices. The team is wisely prioritizing his long-term health for the regular season. Jacobs has been incredibly productive in his first two years in Green Bay, racking up 2,258 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns on the ground, plus 624 receiving yards and 2 scores through the air.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
1. What exactly is a groin injury?
A groin injury is a strain or tear in the muscles of your inner thigh — the ones that help pull your legs together. It’s common in sports that require sudden changes of direction, like football.
2. When is "late in the week" for practice?
In the NFL, "late in the week" usually means Thursday or Friday. Teams typically practice Wednesday through Friday before a Sunday game (or in this case, a Friday preseason game).
3. Why won’t he play in the preseason game if he practices?
Preseason games are essentially glorified scrimmages — they don’t count toward the team’s record. Coaches use them to evaluate younger players. Risking a star player like Jacobs in a meaningless game would be poor management.
4. How long has Jacobs been with the Packers?
The article references his first two seasons in Green Bay. Jacobs signed with the Packers as a free agent before the 2024 season after spending his first five years with the Las Vegas Raiders.
5. Who will carry the load if Jacobs isn’t ready for Week 1?
The Packers have other talented running backs on the roster, including AJ Dillon and Emanuel Wilson, plus any practice squad elevations. The coaching staff has prepared contingency plans for exactly this scenario.