The legal side of Josh Jacobs’ situation has finally taken a major step forward.
Now the Packers have to wait on the NFL.
Jacobs pleaded no contest Thursday to misdemeanor charges of battery and criminal damage to property stemming from a May incident involving his then-girlfriend.
Jacobs was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine plus court costs on the battery charge. The criminal damage charge can be dismissed after 12 months if he satisfies several conditions, including counseling, supervision, restitution and avoiding contact with the alleged victim.
Jacobs also addressed the situation in court.
“I fully understand the seriousness of the situation, and I take full responsibility.”
But resolving the criminal case does not mean Jacobs is immediately returning to football.
The NFL confirmed that Jacobs remains on the Commissioner’s Exempt List while the league continues reviewing the case under its Personal Conduct Policy. That means he still cannot practice or play.
And that’s where things get interesting.
Jacobs’ decision to resolve the case before Green Bay’s season opener could allow the NFL to reach its own decision sooner. A suspension remains possible, although the league has not announced how many games Jacobs could potentially miss.
That’s a massive storyline for Green Bay.
Jacobs rushed for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, and the Packers don’t have anything close to a proven replacement behind him.
For now, Green Bay will have to move forward without its starting running back.
The court case may essentially be resolved.
The Josh Jacobs situation isn’t.
