Josh Jacobs is facing another major development just days before the Green Bay Packers begin their 2026 NFL season.
The running back’s initial court appearance has been moved up to September 10, putting the hearing just three days before Green Bay’s season opener against the Minnesota Vikings.
The hearing was originally scheduled for November 17, but the date has now been moved forward by more than two months. The development adds another layer of uncertainty around Jacobs as the Packers prepare for the start of the regular season.
Josh Jacobs Court Appearance Moved Up
Jacobs’ initial court appearance is now scheduled for Thursday, September 10. According to the latest report, the hearing stems from two misdemeanor charges connected to a May altercation with his girlfriend.
The timing is significant because the Packers are scheduled to open their season against Minnesota just three days later. Jacobs’ legal situation is therefore becoming one of the biggest off-field storylines surrounding Green Bay heading into Week 1.
The NFL has already taken action in the case. Jacobs was placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, which prevents him from practicing or playing while allowing him to continue receiving his salary.
Why Josh Jacobs Is on the Exempt List
The NFL placed Jacobs on the Commissioner’s Exempt List after prosecutors announced misdemeanor charges of battery and criminal damage to property.
Being placed on the list means Jacobs cannot currently participate in football activities for the Packers. Players on the list can, with the club’s permission, potentially visit the team facility for meetings, individual workouts, therapy, rehabilitation and other non-football activities.
The league is also investigating the situation and could potentially issue a suspension. Any games Jacobs misses while on the exempt list can count toward a potential suspension, although he could be required to repay money earned during that period.
Will Josh Jacobs Play in Week 1?
For now, Jacobs’ availability for the Packers’ season opener remains uncertain.
The timing of his court appearance makes the situation especially important. His hearing is scheduled for September 10, while Green Bay opens the season against Minnesota on September 13.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst has previously expressed hope that Jacobs could return at some point during the season. However, the team is also preparing for the possibility that he will remain unavailable.
Gutekunst said the organization would allow the process to play out while being prepared for either outcome.
That approach gives Green Bay flexibility while the NFL investigation and legal process continue.
Packers Add Kaleb Johnson
The Packers have already taken steps to strengthen their running back depth.
Green Bay acquired running back Kaleb Johnson from the Pittsburgh Steelers after Jacobs was placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List. Johnson joins a running back room that also includes MarShawn Lloyd and Chris Brooks, while Pierre Strong is on the practice squad.
The move could become particularly important if Jacobs misses regular-season games.
Jacobs was the clear leader of Green Bay’s rushing attack in 2025. He finished that season with 929 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. The Packers did not have another running back who rushed for more than 106 yards during the season.
His absence would therefore create a significant production gap for the offense.
What Happens Next for Josh Jacobs?
The immediate focus will be on the September 10 court appearance and the NFL’s ongoing investigation.
Jacobs’ attorneys have emphasized that placement on the Commissioner’s Exempt List is not a final determination. They have also said that Jacobs looks forward to returning to the team and the NFL.
At the same time, the Packers are preparing their roster as if they may have to operate without their Pro Bowl running back for at least part of the season.
That makes the next few days particularly important for both Jacobs and Green Bay.
Josh Jacobs Update Before Packers Week 1
The Packers are entering the season with uncertainty surrounding one of their most important offensive players. Jacobs’ court appearance has been moved to September 10, only days before the team’s opener against the Vikings.
Until the legal process and NFL investigation develop further, there is no confirmed timeline for Jacobs’ return to football activities.
For Green Bay, the addition of Kaleb Johnson and the presence of other young running backs provide additional depth. However, replacing Jacobs’ production would still be a major challenge.
The next major update could come around the September 10 hearing, making Josh Jacobs one of the biggest NFL stories to watch as Week 1 approaches.
The Josh Jacobs situation could have a major impact on the Green Bay Packers heading into Week 1. For a closer look at his potential NFL suspension, what it could mean for the Packers, and the latest developments surrounding his status, check out our full guide on Josh Jacobs suspension and Packers update.
FAQs
When is Josh Jacobs’ court appearance?
Josh Jacobs’ initial court appearance is scheduled for September 10, 2026.
Why was Josh Jacobs’ court date moved?
His hearing was originally scheduled for November 17 but was moved up to September 10.
Can Josh Jacobs play for the Packers right now?
No. Jacobs is currently on the NFL’s Commissioner’s Exempt List, which prevents him from practicing or playing.
Will Josh Jacobs play in Week 1?
His Week 1 availability is currently uncertain.
Who could replace Josh Jacobs?
The Packers added Kaleb Johnson and also have MarShawn Lloyd, Chris Brooks and Pierre Strong available in their running back group.
What were Josh Jacobs’ 2025 stats?
Jacobs rushed for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns during the 2025 season.
