Packers News
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs is making progress in his recovery from a knee injury and could play Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Head coach Matt LaFleur told reporters that Jacobs is “feeling pretty good” and participated in limited practice Friday. Jacobs sustained a knee contusion during the Packers’ 27-20 victory over the New York Giants on Sunday. The injury forced him to exit the game in the first half after carrying seven times for 40 yards. He underwent testing that revealed no structural damage to the knee.
If he suits up on Sunday, Fantasy owners will do backflips.
LaFleur declined to rule Jacobs out for Sunday’s game, describing his status as day-to-day. The coach said earlier in the week that the focus was on reducing swelling in Jacobs’ knee. Jacobs later revealed he suffered both a bone bruise and a thigh contusion. He told teammates the injury occurred when his knee struck the playing surface at MetLife Stadium. Initial concerns eased after medical staff confirmed the knee remained structurally sound.
The Packers face a crucial stretch with three consecutive NFC North games. Minnesota arrives at Lambeau Field at noon Sunday for a divisional matchup. Green Bay will travel to Detroit for Thanksgiving four days later, then host Chicago in Week 14.
Emanuel Wilson would assume lead back duties if Jacobs cannot suit up. Wilson handled 13 carries for 61 yards and a touchdown after Jacobs exited Sunday’s game. The running back also converted a critical two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. Chris Brooks serves as the third option in Green Bay’s backfield. Brooks played just five offensive snaps against the Giants despite Jacobs’ absence. The coaching staff has praised Brooks for his pass protection skills.
Jacobs leads the Packers with 648 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns through 10 games. He has added 237 receiving yards on 28 catches. The veteran signed with Green Bay as a free agent this offseason after five seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders.
LaFleur emphasized the importance of having Jacobs available for the upcoming divisional stretch. The Packers enter Week 12 with a 6-3-1 record but have dropped consecutive home games. Sunday’s contest begins with 12 days, featuring three games against NFC North opponents.
The Vikings present a challenging defensive front under coordinator Brian Flores. Minnesota ranks among the league leaders in blitz rate and has consistently applied pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Brooks could see additional snaps due to his blocking prowess. Jacobs expressed optimism about playing Sunday while guaranteeing his availability for Thursday’s game in Detroit. He blamed the artificial turf at MetLife Stadium for the injury. The swelling in his knee has decreased significantly since Sunday.
The final injury report will determine Jacobs’ official status. Green Bay listed 18 players on its midweek injury report, but most participated in practice. The Packers need wins in their remaining divisional games to maintain playoff positioning.
