Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs is back in practice on Tuesday following his recent arrest, as head coach Matt LaFleur reacts. According to reports, the coach described the situation as “business as usual,” downplaying concerns about distractions in the locker room.
Jacobs got in the news on May 23 following an incident at his Wisconsin home. Hobart-Lawrence Police responded to reports of a domestic disturbance at the residence. However, the star running back had left the scene by the time law enforcement arrived, but was eventually tracked.
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He was arrested three days later, on May 26, and booked into the Brown County Jail, facing five serious recommended charges pointing to domestic abuse. In addition to battery, he’s facing charges of criminal damage to property, disorderly conduct, intimidation, and a felony count of strangulation and suffocation.
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The player was released from custody on the following day. The Brown County District Attorney David Lasee has delayed filing formal charges. He’s instead keeping the investigation open to gather additional evidence and determine whether the charges are appropriate.
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Meanwhile, Josh Jacobs’ legal team has denied all allegations levied against him and urged the public to maintain an open mind. The team further mentioned the existence of key evidence that’s not public yet but can potentially clear Jacobs’ name.
How did Matt LaFleur react to Josh Jacobs’ arrest?
While Jacobs’ arrest has met with concerns, Matt LaFleur has kept a measured response in the media.
“I’m gonna stick with the statement that we put out as an organization and just let the process play out,” he said following the arrest.
Although the franchise put out a statement acknowledging the situation, there has been no further comment from them. However, the league has been actively monitoring the situation for a potential violation of its personal conduct policy.
Under the policy, a first-time domestic violence violation typically triggers a baseline six-game suspension. Meanwhile, the strangulation charge could aggravate its response and trigger heavier discipline.
With the team facing the possibility of playing without Josh Jacobs for a portion of the season, LaFleur deferred on the question.
“A lot’s gonna happen between now and then,” he told reporters.
The Packers invested heavily in Jacobs, signing him to a four-year, $48 million free-agent deal in 2024. His output last season was impressive, as he rushed for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns. Green Bay fans will be hoping he’s fully available for the upcoming season.
Edited by Kayode Akinwumi