What's next for the Packers: Josh Jacobs' on Commissioner's exempt list

On Sunday, the NFL announced that the running back will be placed on the Commissioner's exempt list.

Josh Jacobs out indefinitely

As part of the Commissioner's exempt list, Jacobs is not on the Packers' 53-man roster, and he cannot practice or attend games.

Players on the list are paid and, with the team's permission, are allowed to attend meetings, have individual workouts, medical treatments and other non-football activities.

While the NFL is still investigating Jacobs' case, being on the list is indefinite until the league issues a suspension, similar to what happened with James Pearce Jr.

Jacobs' absence in Green Bay will create a big gap in their running back room.

Can MarShawn Lloyd and Kaleb Johnson hold it down?

Shortly after the NFL's announcement, the Packers traded for Johnson with the Steelers in exchange for a 2028 sixth-round pick.

During the 2025 season, Johnson played in 10 games and recorded 69 rushing yards in 29 carries.

Johnson was the No. 83 overall pick in the 2025 Draft; in 2024, he was a consensus All-American, Big Ten running back of the year, and first-team All-Big Ten in his last year at Iowa.

Lloyd was drafted No. 88 overall in the 2024 Draft by the Packers.

Since then, the running back has only played in one game in his rookie season, where he recorded six carries and 15 yards.

At the end of 2024, Lloyd was placed on injured reserve, listed with appendicitis, and spent the 2025 season on and off the injury reserve list, not playing a game all season.

In the meantime, Lloyd will be expected to fill in Jacobs' shoes while he is absent, and if he were to return to Green Bay due to his current situation.

Johnson will be coming in to Green Bay to back up Lloyd, but it wouldn't be a surprise if we see him start some games sometime this season.

Jacobs' court appearance is scheduled for Nov 27; until then, it's up to the NFL to determine how many games the running back will be suspended for.

Watch every game of the 2026 NFL season only on Game Pass

The 2026 NFL season is nearly here, with a record nine international games, and Game Pass is the only place where you can catch every snap.

Features include American commentary throughout, plus RedZone, NFL Network, Game in 40, Sunday in 60, Multiview, and more, with prices starting at £179.99 per year or £18.99 per month.

Every preseason game is also live and free, giving you the perfect opportunity to see what Game Pass has to offer from Week 1 all the way to the Super Bowl.

Sign up for Game Pass on DAZN today and get your front-row seat to the action.