Packers' struggling run game takes hit with Josh Jacobs injury

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Packers' struggling run game takes hit with Josh Jacobs injury update

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Nov 9, 2026 5:53 PM ET

The Green Bay Packers had certainly hoped that the return of running back Josh Jacobs would help aid a struggling rushing attack.

That won't be the case, though, as just three weeks into his return, Jacobs is now going to be sidelined for at least three weeks.

Josh Jacobs could be headed for an IR stint

According to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, Jacobs suffered a broken finger in Sunday's win over the New England Patriots. Zenitz originally reported that Jacobs would miss a maximum of three weeks, but that may not be the case.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur spoke to reporters and said that Jacobs would be undergoing surgery on the broken finger and that an IR stint was a possibility.

If that is indeed the case, Jacobs will be forced to miss the next four weeks and won't be eligible to return until Week 14.

#Packers standout running back Josh Jacobs is set to undergo surgery on his injured finger this week and is expected to miss a maximum of three weeks, sources tell @CBSSports pic.twitter.com/qE7ezuzHe2
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) November 9, 2026

Packers coach Matt LaFleur said Josh Jacobs will need surgery on his broken right ring finger.

There was no option for him to play throught it.

"He tried last night, he just had no grip strength."
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) November 9, 2026

Can Green Bay get its run game going without Josh Jacobs?

Even with the return of Jacobs, Green Bay has not escaped its spot at last in the NFL in rushing yards per game (68.2). It has been one of the worst rushing attacks in recent years and something that could possibly cost the Packers a game or two down the road.

Without its top back, Green Bay will once again turn to MarShawn Lloyd and Kaleb Johnson to handle the workload in the backfield. That duo is averaging just 43.1 rushing yards per game, something that will have to change at some point.

Could the Packers make a trade for a running back?

There are a few running backs that have been mentioned in trade conversations, a route that the Packers may need to explore.

It doesn't have to be a home run hitter like Johnathan Taylor or Saquon Barkley, but a secondary-tier running back like Tony Pollard or James Conner may be an ideal candidate to help improve a struggling rushing attack.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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