Packers are handling lingering concern connected to one of their top offensive stars, and the situation may become a critical storyline
Running back Josh Jacobs has dealt with a knee injury for almost a month.
Running back Josh Jacobs is still handling a knee injury he suffered back on Nov. 16 against the New York Giants. The offensive star didn’t practice on Wednesday and Thursday, creating an obvious concern ahead of the Denver Broncos game on Sunday.
“I mean, he’s been battling through it,” head coach Matt LaFleur said before practice on Thursday. “And then, more than likely, you will not be out there today either, so we’ll see how he’s feeling [on Friday] and then kind of go from there.”
A lingering knee issue for Josh Jacobs
Jacobs suffered a bone bruise against the Giants at MetLife Stadium almost a month ago. He ended up missing the Minnesota Vikings game and played the past two, wins over the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears, and had mostly his normal share.
However, the pain is still there to some extent. And if he can’t practice on Friday, the concern in regards to his availability to face the Broncos will be inevitable.
“Anytime a guy doesn’t practice, there’s always concern,” LaFleur admitted. “We’ll see. He’s been battling through. He’s doing everything in his power to get ready to go.”
Depth options
If Josh Jacobs can’t play, the Packers still have a comfortable situation at running back with backups that Matt LaFleur and the offensive coaching staff trust. Against the Vikings, Emanuel Wilson ran 28 times for 107 yards, scoring two touchdowns. Chris Brooks is a top pass protector, so he brings another element to the offense as well.
Additionally, second-year back MarShawn Lloyd has already been designated to return from injured reserve. It’s unclear when he will return, but his presence could make the offense more explosive and varied.
Friday’s practice will tell us a lot about Josh Jacobs’ status, but making sure that he’s fully healthy for the playoffs is more important than his availability for Sunday.
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