The Green Bay Packers (6-3) received an encouraging injury update Saturday after star running back Josh Jacobs underwent successful surgery on his fractured right ring finger, with the veteran expected to return within the next few weeks.
NFL insider Tom Pelissero shared the update Saturday via X, formerly known as Twitter, providing clarity on Jacobs' recovery ahead of Green Bay's pivotal NFC North matchup against the Minnesota Vikings (6-2) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on Fox.
“Packers RB Josh Jacobs had successful surgery on his fractured right ring finger Friday in Los Angeles with Dr. Steven Shin, the noted hand and wrist surgeon, and should be back in the next few weeks.”
Jacobs suffered the injury during the first quarter of Green Bay's 45-27 victory over the New England Patriots last Sunday. The three-time Pro Bowler finished with just five rushing yards on four carries before exiting the contest.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur initially left open the possibility of placing Jacobs on injured reserve, which would require him to miss at least four games. However, the latest recovery timeline offers optimism that the veteran could return sooner.
Packers look to maintain momentum without Josh Jacobs
Jacobs has appeared in just three games this season after missing Green Bay's first six contests while on the commissioner's exempt list.
Through those appearances, the 28-year-old has recorded 80 rushing yards and one touchdown on 36 carries, averaging 2.2 yards per attempt. He has also contributed 11 receptions for 68 yards and two receiving touchdowns, totaling 148 yards from scrimmage.
His most productive outing came against the Detroit Lions in Week 7, when he recorded 36 rushing yards and added 55 receiving yards with a touchdown in Green Bay's 20-17 loss.
With Jacobs sidelined, the Packers will rely on their remaining backfield options, including Kaleb Johnson and Pierre Strong Jr. Johnson impressed against New England, rushing for 68 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, while Strong added 22 yards on eight attempts.
Green Bay enters Sunday's divisional showdown seeking its third consecutive victory after defeating the Patriots in Week 9. With Jacobs unavailable, the Packers will look to maintain their momentum against Minnesota while awaiting their starting running back's return.