Green Bay limped out of MetLife last week after a bruising win that left starters nicked up. The Packers now face a tight schedule as Thanksgiving is just four days away, so availability is crucial. Packers RB Josh Jacobs has been closely monitored all week as the coaching staff weighed the risk versus the reward.
“Packers RB Josh Jacobs, dealing with a banged-up knee, is inactive today vs. the Vikings, as@nflnetworkreported.” reported Adam Schefter.
Packers RB Josh Jacobs, dealing with a banged-up knee, is inactive today vs. the Vikings, as @nflnetwork reported. pic.twitter.com/3cHbsoSATK
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 23, 2025
Josh Jacobs’ Injury Update Shapes Packers’ Week 12 Backfield Decisions
Green Bay Packers, Jordan Love, Josh Jacobs
Jan 5, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) hands the football off to running back Josh Jacobs (8) during the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Josh Jacobs is out for Sunday’s game. Adam Schefter first posted the update on X, and the Packers’ official inactives list confirmed it.
Early reports and follow-ups indicate that the injury is a contusion. An MRI revealed no significant structural damage, but soreness persisted after last week. The team’s medical staff leaned conservative because Green Bay runs into the Detroit Lions on Thursday. That short turnaround pushed the scale toward rest.
Emmanuel Wilson and Pierre Strong Jr. are slated to carry the load. Expect more shotgun draws, quick passes to tight ends, and Jordan Love to lean on short-yardage rhythm plays. The Packers will try to control the clock without their primary downhill runner. Analysts and betting markets have already adjusted accordingly.
Jacobs’ status should be considered OUT for Week 12 lineups. If you started him in cash games, move to the highest-floor replacement. If you roster him in deeper formats, monitor practice reports for midweek return chatter, but don’t bank on Week 12 production.
The 27-year-old’s injury update checks the “precaution” box. Green Bay protected his long-term availability over one game. The team’s decision aligns with medical reads and the looming Thanksgiving clash. Fans will want to track official practice notes this week, but for now, Jacobs won’t suit up vs. Minnesota.
The Packers chose patience, not panic. With a critical divisional showdown just days away, resting Josh Jacobs keeps the team’s top rushing threat aligned with the bigger picture. Green Bay believes that this is a short-term sacrifice that will boost its long-term upside. All eyes now shift to Thursday, where the veteran running back’s availability could shape the tone of the Packers’ playoff push.