GREEN BAY, Wis. — Josh Jacobs has made a remarkable comeback to elite running back status since joining the Green Bay Packers, following a challenging season in Las Vegas. After experiencing the lowest point of his career last year, Jacobs has found his stride once again, reminiscent of his standout performance in 2022 when he topped the NFL in rushing and earned All-Pro recognition with the Raiders.
Jacobs, who has rushed for 1,147 yards so far this season and currently ranks third among NFL running backs, insists he never wavered in his belief that he would excel with his new team. “I believe in me,” he stated, highlighting his confidence in his abilities and his commitment to winning every matchup on the field.
His performance has been vital for the Packers (10-4), who are poised to secure their fifth playoff appearance in six years. Jacobs’ approach has impressed not only fans but also his coach, Matt LaFleur, who praised his ability to evade defenders with ease.
Last season, Jacobs endured difficulties, holding out during preseason and ending with a career-low 805 rushing yards. In seeking a change, he joined the Packers, a decision that has significantly benefited both him and the team. Jacobs, younger and perceived as more durable than the departed Aaron Jones, has thrived on the field, carrying the workload with 265 attempts in the first 14 games.
The Packers are also seeing the rewards of Jacobs’ strong start; he has rushed for 688 yards in the first halves of games, helping the team dominate early scoring, evidenced by outscoring opponents 95-34 in the first quarter.
This past week, Jacobs showcased his skill set during a decisive 30-13 victory against Seattle, handling the ball on the game’s first eight plays and culminating in a touchdown. His running backs coach, Ben Sirmans, acknowledged Jacobs’ exceptional durability and energy, quipping that he seems to recover like Wolverine from the comics.
Jacobs feels confident heading into the latter part of the season and has learned how to play smart to avoid injuries while maintaining high performance levels. “I feel great,” he affirmed, suggesting that as long as he stays healthy, the team can achieve significant success.
This hopeful turnaround signifies not only Jacobs’ personal triumph but also a boost for the Packers as they aim for a deep playoff run. As the team continues to work cohesively, Jacob’s resurgence has undeniably become a source of inspiration and a key component in their pursuit of championship glory.