The Green Bay Packers received more unfortunate running back news on Saturday, one day before their crucial NFC North rivalry matchup versus the Chicago Bears. Josh Jacobs has already missed the first four games of the 2026 season as he sits on the NFL Commissioner's Exemption List after he was charged with two misdemeanors in August—one for battery and one for criminal damage to property. The NFL's investigation is still ongoing although Jacobs reached a plea deal in September.
It's unclear if Jacobs will play football at all this season, or if the league will suspend him. In Jacobs's absence, the running back core consisting of MarShawn Lloyd, Kaleb Johnson and Chris Brooks has attempted to fill in the gaps. However, none of these three running backs have rushed for 100 yards throughout the first four games.
On Saturday, the Packers placed Brooks on the injured reserve list, meaning he'll miss at least the next four games. Brooks suffered an ankle injury that forced him to go on the IR. Through four games, Brooks recorded 15 carries for 70 yards.
He also caught three passes for 24 yards. In Brooks's place, the Packers elevated Pierre Strong Jr. from the practice squad earlier this week. Quarterback Jordan Love and the Packers have heavily focused on throwing the ball instead of running it to start their 2-2 season.
It seems like this game plan will continue to be executed, especially if running backs continue to drop. Wide receiver Christian Watson leads the team with 20 catches for 331 yards and four touchdowns. The Bears will be without their top running back this weekend, too, as Kyle Monangai is dealing with a turf toe injury.
He's expected to miss multiple weeks. However, Chicago doesn't plan to place him on the injured reserve list, and he will instead be considered "week-to-week."
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