Packers make the smart call with their Pro Bowl offensive player, and multiple underlying concerns still linger for Green Bay

Running back Josh Jacobs and wide receiver Matthew Golden are officially inactive against the Minnesota Vikings.

Wendell Ferreira — NFL News Writer
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Nov 16, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (8) runs the ball against New York Giants safety Dane Belton (24) during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

There was just too little time. A week after leaving the New York Giants game early with a bone bruise and thigh contusion, running back Josh Jacobs will not play for the Green Bay Packers against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

He pushed to play all week, according to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, but the Packers are making a cautious decision. The reason is because Green Bay plays the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving next Thursday, therefore Jacobs gains an extra few days to recover.

Without the Pro Bowler, Emanuel Wilson is expected to start at running back and get the majority of carries. Chris Brooks is also a big part of the rotation, though, especially because of his ability to pass protect. On Saturday, the Packers elevated Pierre Strong Jr. from the practice squad for gameday to offer depth.

Packers inactives vs. Vikings

  • WR Matthew Golden
  • LB Quay Walker
  • RB Josh Jacobs
  • CB Nate Hobbs
  • K Lucas Havrisik
  • LB Jamon-Dumas Johnson
  • IOL Donovan Jennings

Offensive issues

Josh Jacobs is not the only offensive starter ruled out to play against the Vikings. First-round rookie Matthew Golden, who got injured against the Carolina Panthers, missed the Philadelphia Eagles game, and played on a pitch count against the Giants, is inactive now as well. On the other hand, wide receivers Dontayvion Wicks (calf) and Savion Williams (foot) are both active.

On defense, edge defender Lukas Van Ness (foot) returns after missing five games, and defensive tackle Karl Brooks (ankle) is also active.

As expected, off-ball linebacker Quay Walker is out with a neck injury. He had been listed as doubtful to play, a strong indication that he wouldn’t be available. Cornerback Nate Hobbs had been ruled out on Friday with a knee injury.

Other side

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