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Green Bay Packers RB Josh Jacobs Sidelined for Season Opener Amid League Review

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs will miss the team's season opener against the Minnesota Vikings as he remains on the NFL's Commissioner's Exempt List following recent misdemeanor convictions in Wisconsin.

Green Bay Packers RB Josh Jacobs Sidelined for Season Opener Amid League Review

The Green Bay Packers are set to begin their 2026 NFL campaign against the Minnesota Vikings this Sunday without starting running back Josh Jacobs. The 28-year-old athlete remains sidelined as he continues to be held on the league's Commissioner's Exempt List, a status that precludes him from participating in team practices, games, or facility activities.

The decision to keep Jacobs on the list follows his recent appearance in Brown County Court on September 10. During the proceedings, Jacobs entered a plea of no contest to two misdemeanor charges: battery and criminal damage to property. Following the plea, the court convicted him on the battery charge and issued a $1,000 fine, while opting for a deferred judgment agreement regarding the criminal damage to property charge.

Legal Status and NFL Disciplinary Process

The Commissioner's Exempt List serves as a mechanism for temporary paid leave while the league conducts a review of a player's involvement in serious off-field legal or personal matters. Although players placed on this list continue to receive their salary and benefits, they are barred from all standard team operations. The NFL has clarified that this designation is an administrative measure rather than a final disciplinary ruling.