NFL

Matt LaFleur expects Josh Jacobs to remain with Packers despite misdemeanor charges

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Aug 29, 2026, 11:17 IST

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has expressed his expectation that Josh Jacobs will continue with the team following the filing of misdemeanor battery and property destruction charges against the player.

Matt LaFleur expects Josh Jacobs to remain with Packers despite misdemeanor charges

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has publicly addressed the status of running back Josh Jacobs, confirming that he expects the player to remain part of the roster. The comments arrived on Friday, just one day after formal charges were filed against Jacobs in connection with an alleged incident earlier this year.

The Brown County District Attorney has charged Jacobs with two misdemeanors: battery and criminal destruction of property. These charges stem from an incident reported on May 23 at the player's residence near Green Bay. According to the criminal complaint, the allegations involve Jacobs grabbing a woman and throwing her to the ground, resulting in the woman striking her head. An initial court appearance for the case is currently scheduled for November 17.

Legal developments and team status

While the legal situation remains ongoing, LaFleur maintained a firm stance regarding Jacobs' future with the organization. When asked about the player's standing, the head coach stated that he fully anticipates Jacobs will continue to be a member of the team. LaFleur emphasized the need to allow the legal process to unfold, though he did not offer further speculation on the potential outcomes of the case.

The NFL has confirmed that the matter is currently under review by the league. Under standard league protocols, the NFL maintains the authority to issue a suspension regardless of the status of the legal proceedings. This leaves the possibility that the Packers could be forced to navigate the early stages of the regular season without Jacobs if the league office decides to take disciplinary action. When pressed on the potential for a suspension, LaFleur noted that he could not comment on the matter as he does not have information regarding the league's timeline or decision-making process.

Preseason context and upcoming schedule

LaFleur’s remarks followed the Packers' 42-38 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in their preseason finale at Lambeau Field. Jacobs was among 37 players who did not participate in the contest; however, the team clarified that his absence was due to the coaching staff's decision to rest starters rather than his legal situation. Jacobs would not have been expected to play in the exhibition match regardless of the charges.

The Packers are now turning their attention to the start of the regular season, which is set to kick off on September 13 with a road game against the Minnesota Vikings. As the team prepares for the opener, the status of the running back remains a significant point of interest for the organization and the league.