Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs faced a setback during the team’s game against the New York Giants on November 16, suffering a knee injury that forced him to exit the contest in the first half. While concerns initially loomed regarding the severity of the injury, ESPN’s Rob Demovsky later reported that Jacobs’ condition is not believed to be season-ending.
Following the game, Jacobs was slated to undergo further examination on November 17 as the team returned to Green Bay. Although the exact moment of injury was not clear, Jacobs played every snap in the first two drives before being absent from the field on the subsequent drive. Prior to his departure, he had amassed 40 yards on seven carries, achieving a strong average of 5.7 yards per carry.
In terms of his return, head coach Matt LaFleur indicated that Jacobs would not be placed on injured reserve, which opens the door for a possible return in Week 12 during a matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on November 23. LaFleur noted that the injury is a contusion, emphasizing the need to manage the swelling resulting from a tough playing surface.
Further tests on November 17 revealed there was no structural damage to Jacobs’ knee, leading to reports indicating that he is currently considered week-to-week. Notably, Jacobs briefly returned to the field after sustaining the injury, hinting at his determination to continue.
With Jacobs’ status still uncertain, backup running back Emanuel Wilson stepped up following Jacobs’ exit against the Giants, matching Jacobs’ rushing total of 40 yards on 11 carries while averaging 3.6 yards per attempt. Other backups on the depth chart include Chris Brooks, who had a single carry for eight yards, and MarShawn Lloyd, currently on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.
As the Packers navigate this injury situation, the potential for Jacobs to return sooner rather than later brings a glimmer of hope for both the team and its fans, with Wilson ready to shoulder the load if necessary. The Packers will keep a close eye on Jacobs’ recovery in the lead-up to their next match, aiming to maintain their competitive edge.