Packers Prepare for Josh Jacobs’ Suspension

The Green Bay Packers are preparing for a major backfield shake-up as uncertainty continues to surround star running back Josh Jacobs ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst confirmed Wednesday that the organization has already considered the possibility of Jacobs missing games because of a potential NFL suspension. “We’ve obviously been preparing for that in case that happens,” Gutekunst said, while also expressing confidence in the running backs currently on the roster.

Josh Jacobs Suspension Could Change Packers’ Backfield

Jacobs remains under NFL review following his May 26 arrest in Wisconsin in connection with a domestic disturbance. He was released from custody the following day, and prosecutors have not filed formal criminal charges. The NFL can still discipline a player under its personal-conduct policy even when criminal charges are not filed.

The timing creates an important question for Green Bay. The Packers are entering the regular season expecting Jacobs to be a major part of their offensive attack, but a potential suspension could force the team to rely heavily on its younger running backs.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter previously indicated that a suspension was possible, although the length had not been determined. As of August 26, no suspension has officially been announced.

Jacobs is also dealing with a lingering groin issue, adding another layer of uncertainty to his availability.

The Packers are also preparing for the final NFL roster cuts 2026, when teams must finalize their 53-man rosters ahead of the regular season. This could make the coming days especially important for Green Bay’s backfield decisions.

MarShawn Lloyd Emerges as Key Opportunity

If Jacobs misses regular-season games, MarShawn Lloyd could immediately become the Packers’ lead running back.

Lloyd has dealt with significant injury problems since entering the NFL, but his 2026 offseason has offered Green Bay a reason for optimism. He has reportedly stayed healthy during training camp and has impressed coaches and teammates with his performance.

Packers officials have also noticed the difference.

Gutekunst recently praised Lloyd’s ability to make plays whenever he is available, highlighting the upside that has made him one of the team’s most intriguing young players.

That availability is especially important because Lloyd has historically struggled to stay on the field. The Packers therefore need to determine whether he can handle an expanded workload if Jacobs becomes unavailable.

Preseason Usage Sends an Important Signal

Lloyd’s preseason workload has also attracted attention.

Against Denver last week, Lloyd reportedly played 5 of the first 7 offensive snaps during the opening drive with Green Bay’s starters. That usage could become even more significant if Jacobs misses time.

For a player who has spent much of his early NFL career battling injuries, receiving meaningful work with the starters is an encouraging sign.

It also gives Green Bay an opportunity to evaluate whether Lloyd can handle the physical demands of being the primary option in the backfield.

Packers Still Trust Their Running Back Room

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Jacobs, Gutekunst made it clear that Green Bay is not panicking.

The general manager said he feels good about the players already in the running back room. At the same time, the Packers are keeping their options open if circumstances change.

That approach makes sense.

Green Bay does not necessarily need to make an immediate move, but the team has to be prepared for multiple scenarios. Jacobs could avoid suspension, receive a suspension of undetermined length, or miss time because of his groin injury.

Having Lloyd ready gives the Packers an internal solution.

What This Means for Green Bay

The biggest question is whether Lloyd can turn his offseason progress into consistent regular-season production.

If Jacobs is available, Lloyd could begin the season in a complementary role while continuing to develop. But if Jacobs is suspended, Lloyd could suddenly become one of the most important young players on Green Bay’s offense.

The Packers’ season opener is scheduled for September 13 against the Minnesota Vikings, meaning the team has limited time to finalize its backfield plans.

For now, Green Bay appears to be taking a cautious approach rather than assuming Jacobs will definitely miss games.

Final Takeaway

Josh Jacobs’ situation remains unresolved, but the Packers are clearly preparing for the possibility that their starting running back could be unavailable.

The good news for Green Bay is that MarShawn Lloyd appears healthier and more prepared than he has been previously. His preseason opportunities and strong training-camp reports could make him the most important insurance option in the Packers’ backfield.

Until the NFL announces a decision on Jacobs, the situation remains uncertain. But one thing is already clear: Green Bay is preparing for every possibility, and Lloyd could be the player who benefits most if Jacobs misses time.

FAQs

1. Is Josh Jacobs facing an NFL suspension?
Josh Jacobs could face an NFL suspension following his May arrest, but as of August 26, 2026, the league has not officially announced the length or final details of any suspension.

2. Why could Josh Jacobs be suspended?
Jacobs was arrested in May in connection with a domestic abuse-related incident. The NFL can conduct its own review under its personal-conduct policy.

3. Who will replace Josh Jacobs if he is suspended?
MarShawn Lloyd is currently the leading candidate to receive a major increase in workload if Jacobs misses regular-season games.

4. Is MarShawn Lloyd healthy?
Lloyd has reportedly remained healthy during the offseason and has received positive attention for his performance in training camp and joint practices.

5. How did MarShawn Lloyd perform in the preseason?
Against Denver, Lloyd played 5 of the Packers’ first 7 offensive snaps during the opening drive with the starters, giving him valuable experience in the first-team offense.

6. Will Josh Jacobs miss the Packers’ season opener?
That is not confirmed. His availability will depend on any NFL disciplinary decision as well as his lingering groin issue.

7. Are the Packers prepared for Jacobs to miss games?
Yes. GM Brian Gutekunst said the Packers have been preparing for the possibility while expressing confidence in the running backs currently on the roster.

8. What does Jacobs’ situation mean for fantasy football?
If Jacobs receives a suspension, MarShawn Lloyd could become a significantly more valuable fantasy football option because of the potential increase in touches.