The Green Bay Packers will be without star running back Josh Jacobs in their matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, according to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero. Jacobs, who suffered a knee injury last Sunday at MetLife Stadium, was officially ruled out after a pre-game workout on Sunday morning showed he wasn’t ready for game action.
Jacobs initially injured the knee during last week’s loss, experiencing significant swelling and limited range of motion. He missed Wednesday’s practice entirely but made limited appearances on Thursday and Friday. Those sessions gave the Packers some hope that he could play; however, the team ultimately chose caution.
A major factor in the decision was the short turnaround ahead. Green Bay plays again on Thursday against the Detroit Lions, and the team does not want to risk worsening the injury and losing Jacobs for several weeks. With four extra days of rest, the bruised knee is expected to improve significantly before the next game.
This marks Jacobs’ first missed game since signing with Green Bay before the 2024 season. He played all 17 games last year and the first 10 games of the 2025 season.
Packers’ Plan Without Jacobs
With the Packers RB Josh Jacobs (knee) OUT vs. Vikings, Green Bay will rely on a committee:
Emanuel Wilson – Lead Back
Wilson steps into the RB1 role. So far in 2024, he has:
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53 carries
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220 rushing yards
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1 touchdown
Wilson played well as Jacobs’ primary backup last season, rushing for over 500 yards and averaging 4.9 yards per carry.
Chris Brooks – Third-Down and Blocking Role
Brooks, a versatile back who can catch and block, is expected to play heavily on third downs. His pass-blocking will be crucial against Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who is known for his aggressive blitz packages.
Pierre Strong Jr. – Practice Squad Elevation
Strong Jr. has been elevated for depth and may see rotational snaps or special teams action.
Impact on the Packers Offense
Jacobs has been a central part of the offense, and his absence forces the Packers to adjust:
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More snaps for Emanuel Wilson
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Increased short passing game for QB Jordan Love
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Potential use of quick-release plays to neutralize Minnesota’s blitz
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Heavier reliance on wide receivers and tight ends
The offense will likely shift away from the power-running looks they rely on when Jacobs is healthy.
Why the Packers Are Being Cautious
Jacobs is battling a bruised knee, not a structural tear, meaning rest is the best medicine. Playing him today risked turning a minor injury into a major one. With the Lions game approaching on Thursday night, protecting Jacobs for a divisional showdown is the priority.
The team expects Jacobs to be much closer to 100% with the benefit of extended rest.
Jacobs’ Durability Until Now
Since arriving in Green Bay:
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Played all 17 games last season
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Played first 10 games in 2025
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Became the backbone of the running attack
This is the first time he’s been sidelined since joining the Packers.
Looking Ahead
The Packers face a challenging task against a surging Vikings defense, especially without their RB1. Still, Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks give them workable options. If the team can manage the ground game and keep Jordan Love upright, they can remain competitive.
References
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Packers Wire – Zach Kruse
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NFL Media – Tom Pelissero
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Green Bay Packers Team Injury Report (2025)
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