The Green Bay Packers are preparing for the possibility that star running back Josh Jacobs could miss time during the 2026 NFL season, although there is currently no confirmation that a suspension will be handed down.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst addressed the situation Wednesday and indicated that Green Bay believes its running back room has enough depth to handle a potential absence. At the same time, his comments left the door open for the team to make another roster move if circumstances change.
Josh Jacobs’ Status Remains Uncertain
Jacobs was arrested in May on domestic abuse-related charges. He was later released by police, and the situation remains under review by the NFL.
That review creates uncertainty surrounding Jacobs as the Packers prepare for the regular season. Jacobs is expected to be Green Bay’s starting running back when available, making his status an important storyline for both the team and fantasy football managers.
However, Gutekunst’s latest comments suggest the Packers are not waiting for a final decision before considering contingency plans.
Green Bay’s general manager said the organization has already prepared for the possibility of Jacobs missing time while emphasizing his confidence in the players currently behind the veteran running back.
Packers Believe They Have Enough Running Back Depth
If Jacobs is unavailable, MarShawn Lloyd appears to be the most obvious candidate to receive an expanded role.
Lloyd was selected by the Packers in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft but has struggled to stay healthy early in his professional career. He missed essentially the entire 2025 season and has had limited NFL game experience.
His recent preseason performance, however, has provided some encouragement.
Lloyd recorded 28 total scrimmage yards against the Denver Broncos and scored an 11-yard receiving touchdown from quarterback Jordan Love. If Jacobs were to miss games and the Packers did not make a significant addition, Lloyd could become one of the most important players in Green Bay’s backfield.
Other Packers Running Backs Could See Bigger Roles
Green Bay has several other options behind Jacobs and Lloyd.
Chris Brooks brings value as a third-down back, particularly because of his ability in pass protection and blitz pickup. That skill could become especially important if the Packers need to change their offensive approach without Jacobs.
Pierre Strong Jr. has also impressed during training camp and the preseason, giving the Packers another potential option.
The team also has Damian Martinez and undrafted rookie Jaden Nixon available in the running back room.
Rather than relying exclusively on one player, Green Bay could use a committee approach if Jacobs is forced to miss time.
Packers Could Use Practice Squad Elevations
One of the more interesting possibilities mentioned by Gutekunst is the use of practice squad elevations.
NFL teams can elevate players from the practice squad for individual games, giving Green Bay additional flexibility without necessarily committing a roster spot to another running back for the entire season.
The Packers could potentially keep three or four running backs on the 53-man roster and use practice squad players when necessary.
That strategy could become particularly useful if Jacobs’ situation is resolved after roster decisions have already been made.
Could Green Bay Add Another Running Back?
Gutekunst also did not completely rule out making an addition if Jacobs is suspended.
That gives the Packers another option if the current depth chart does not provide enough confidence once the season begins.
Trey Benson has emerged as a name worth monitoring. The Arizona Cardinals waived Benson on Aug. 24, but Green Bay did not claim him off waivers. Benson subsequently landed on Arizona’s injured reserve.
A future opportunity could still develop if Benson and the Cardinals reach an injury settlement and he becomes available again. However, there is no indication that Green Bay is currently committed to pursuing him.
For fantasy managers, that distinction is important. A potential move to Green Bay would not automatically make Benson a valuable fantasy option. His role would need to become clear before he could be considered a strong waiver target.
Fantasy Football Impact of a Josh Jacobs Suspension
Jacobs’ availability could have a major impact on fantasy football.
When healthy and active, Jacobs is expected to handle the lead role in Green Bay’s offense. His absence would immediately create additional opportunities for Lloyd and potentially other Packers running backs.
Lloyd is therefore the player fantasy managers are likely to monitor most closely.
His combination of rushing ability, receiving potential and connection with Jordan Love could make him an intriguing option if Jacobs misses games. Still, his limited NFL experience and injury history make his fantasy outlook difficult to project with certainty.
Fantasy managers should also watch the Packers’ final roster decisions and any developments involving potential additions.
Financial Impact for Jacobs and Green Bay
A suspension would not only affect the Packers on the field.
Based on the salary information reported in connection with Jacobs’ contract, he would lose approximately $560,000 per game from his base salary for each game missed because of a suspension.
That amount would also be credited back to Green Bay’s salary cap, creating a financial benefit for the Packers while potentially costing Jacobs significantly.
The financial consequences, however, are secondary to the team’s immediate concern: maintaining its offensive production.
What Happens Next?
For now, Josh Jacobs remains the expected starting running back for the Packers, and there has been no confirmed suspension for the 2026 season.
Green Bay’s approach suggests the organization is preparing for multiple possibilities rather than assuming Jacobs will definitely miss games.
If Jacobs remains available, Lloyd, Brooks, Strong and the other backs can continue developing their roles behind him. If a suspension occurs, Lloyd could move into a much larger role, while Green Bay could also rely on a committee, elevate a practice squad player or explore the veteran market.
The situation will ultimately depend on the NFL’s decision and any further developments involving Jacobs.
For the Packers, the message from Gutekunst is clear: the team is prepared for uncertainty, but it is not currently acting as though Jacobs’ absence is guaranteed.
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