Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur addressed Josh Jacobs' return Wednesday, acknowledging the running back's off-field legal troubles while expressing his belief in second chances.

Jacobs returned to practice after missing Green Bay's first six games while on the NFL's Commissioner’s Exempt List. His reinstatement comes amid an ongoing league investigation into a domestic incident involving his former girlfriend.

The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov shared a video on X, formerly Twitter, showing LaFleur discussing how the Packers balance welcoming Jacobs back with the seriousness of his legal case.

#Packers HC Matt LaFleur on RB Josh Jacobs’ return:

“I think a lot of times you get in a situation where you might not make the right decision. I think people learn from their mistakes. He’s extremely remorseful. I do believe he is a good person. I’ve been around him quite a… pic.twitter.com/VuGaATpSkn

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) October 21, 2026

The 2022 first-team All-Pro running back pleaded no contest to misdemeanor battery and criminal damage to property charges stemming from a May altercation with his then-girlfriend. The NFL placed Jacobs on the Commissioner’s Exempt List on August 30 before removing him on Monday.

However, his removal does not conclude the NFL's investigation under its Personal Conduct Policy. Additional discipline remains possible, and whether his six missed games will count toward a future suspension has not been finalized.

Jacobs and the woman involved also filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent the release of evidence related to the incident.

Article Continues Below

On the field, the Packers desperately need rushing production. Green Bay enters Sunday's matchup vs. the Lions averaging an NFL-worst 59.8 rushing yards per game despite holding a 4-2 record and riding a three-game winning streak.

Jacobs’ Week 7 availability remains uncertain, as LaFleur has not confirmed whether he will play. The Packers also have a temporary roster exemption for Jacobs that expires on October 26.

For now, the former Alabama standout is eligible to return, but his status for Sunday and potential league discipline remain unresolved.