The Green Bay Packers could be facing a significant injury concern in their backfield after running back Josh Jacobs suffered a broken finger during Sunday’s matchup against the New England Patriots. Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed the injury after the game, but the team is still evaluating Jacobs and hoping he can play through it.
The timing is frustrating for Green Bay, which recently welcomed Jacobs back to the lineup after he missed the first six weeks of the season. Now, the Packers may have to adjust their backfield plans again, depending on how the injury affects his ability to handle the football.
The injury could have major implications for Green Bay’s offense, especially as the Packers try to establish consistency in the running game.
Jacobs suffered broken finger against Patriots
According to reports, Jacobs fractured his right ring finger after getting it caught in the facemask of Patriots safety Craig Woodson during the first quarter. The injury forced him to leave the game for evaluation, and he was initially listed as questionable to return with a hand injury.
Jacobs reportedly said the finger popped out during the play and that he put it back into place. However, he was unable to grip the football afterward, creating an obvious concern about his ability to handle his usual workload.
The running back managed just four carries for five yards before exiting. His injury also came with MarShawn Lloyd inactive because of a knee issue, leaving Green Bay with limited options at the position.
Packers hoping Jacobs can play through injury
Despite the fracture, LaFleur indicated that the Packers are hopeful Jacobs can play through the injury. The team will continue evaluating the situation before determining what his availability will look like moving forward.
That would be an important development for Green Bay. Jacobs is one of the team’s most established offensive players, and losing him for an extended period would force the coaching staff to make significant adjustments to its backfield rotation.
Kaleb Johnson and Pierre Strong Jr. are among the available alternatives. Johnson received an increased opportunity against New England after Jacobs exited, while Strong also handled carries.
The Packers will need to monitor Jacobs closely throughout the week to determine whether he can grip the football comfortably enough to handle game action. A broken finger does not automatically mean an extended absence, but it can be particularly problematic for a running back who needs to secure the ball through contact.
For now, Green Bay is hoping its starting running back can avoid missing time. His status will be one of the team’s biggest injury storylines heading into Week 10.