The development of the Josh Jacobs arrest could make the Green Bay Packers consider other options at the running back position before the 2026 campaign. According to the breaking news, the veteran RB was arrested for an alleged domestic incident following a disturbing complaint. While the veteran was released from custody, you’d have to wonder what the Packers will do to address the situation. Either way, Jacobs could be set to face suspension from the league, which could result in him missing a full season.
Originally selected in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, the former three-time Pro Bowler has been a reliable downhill runner for Jordan Love’s offense. The running back finished the 2025 campaign, recording 929 yards and 13 touchdowns. Earlier this offseason, the team re-signed Chris Brooks for depth, while MarShawn Lloyd is still fighting for a roster spot. Realistically, Green Bay doesn’t have enough dependable potential starters and could be forced to sign or trade for a replacement.
Depending on the investigation, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Packers release him if he faces more than a year in jail.
Josh Jacobs Arrest: 4 Best Replacements for Troubled Star
As the Packers turn their attention to OTAs, they will settle for the time being on their current RB room hierarchy, including Pierre Strong. Following the loss of Emanuel Wilson to the Seattle Seahawks, the Packers will dissect the talent they have before deciding to add another RB. Brooks and Lloyd have the highest chances to win the starting job, but it wouldn’t be surprising if they dip their hand in the free agent market.
At the same time, it might be time for the Packers to move on. This means adding a solid RB1 that would leave Jacobs without a job. Here are four routes the Packers could take before the regular season.
Possible Options
4. Trade for Tank Bigsby, Philadelphia Eagles
Ever since RB Tank Bigsby left Jacksonville to fill in as a 1-2 punch for Saquon Barkley’s backfield, the running back has failed to established as a reliable offensive weapon. With Bigsby entering the final year of his current rookie contract, it might be best for the Eagles to unload him for cheap. Bigbsy isn’t going to garner much of a market if he’s a free agent, but he should be an emergency fill for the Packers.
It would be cheap, and he won’t be the permanent starter. However, the Eagles don’t need to hold on to him anymore if he isn’t making much of an impact in Philadelphia. Bigsby has a similar frame compared to Jacobs but is much younger and needs a fresh start.
3. Sign Najee Harris
Meanwhile, free agent Najee Harris is still looking for work after receiving interest from the Seahawks and Raiders this offseason. After missing the 2025 campaign with an Achilles injury, he’s a high-risk, high-reward temporary signing that could explode at the right moment. He’s not in his prime anymore, but he’s a workhorse that might exceed expectations and help Brooks and Lloyd in the backfield while Jacobs is gone.
2. Trade for Ty Johnson, Buffalo Bills
One of the most beloved players in Buffalo, Ty Johnson, is set to play out his final year with the team. The good news is that he’s more than just a reliable runner, but he’s a legitimate pass-catcher. He hauled in 609 yards and six touchdowns on 49 receptions in his career in the passing game. Johnson won’t be replacing Jacobs, but he’d be a decent backup if Green Bay feels good about running a 1-2 punch with Brooks.
1. The Crown Jewel: Jaylen Wright
Many expected the obvious, like Alvin Kamara, but Jaylen Wright is the true answer the Packers might need. Green Bay should be motivated to grab itself a long-term answer at the running back position, especially with Jacobs getting older. The Dolphins gave De’Von Achane a blockbuster extension a few weeks ago, which leaves questions about Wright’s future.
The good news is that he won’t be a free agent until 2028, and that should give the Packers plenty of time for him to get established in their run game on a cheap contract.
