The Packers have traded for former 3rd round pick Kaleb Johnson as star running back Josh Jacobs lands on the Commissioner’s Exempt List.
The NFL placed Jacobs on the Commissioner’s Exempt List Sunday as the league reviews misdemeanor battery and criminal damage to property charges stemming from an alleged May incident. Players on the list cannot practice or attend games, and there is currently no established date for Jacobs’ return. His placement on the list is an administrative action and does not represent a final determination by the NFL.
Prior to Jacob’s indefinite suspension, the Packers acquired second-year running back Kaleb Johnson. Johnson, was a former 3rd round pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2025 draft, and was exchanged for a 2028 sixth-round draft pick. This now gives another option behind MarShawn Lloyd and Chris Brooks. (RELATED:Fitzgerald Battles NFL Over Streaming Paywalls And Packers Warnings)
Even while battling injuries last season, he rushed for 929 yards, 13 touchdowns in 15 games, and accumulated 282 receiving yards. His 13 rushing scores followed a 15-touchdown debut season in Green Bay, making him only the second player in franchise history to record at least 13 rushing touchdowns in consecutive seasons.
The loss of Jacobs also hurts a little deeper with the loss of Emanuel Wilson. Wilson signed with the Seahawks in March after spending three years in Green Bay. In 2025, Wilson rushed for 496 yards and three touchdowns on 125 carries while appearing in all 17 games. He also added 99 receiving yards and provided occasional value as a kick returner. Wilson proved to be a serviceable back up in the Jordan Love offense, where the back field has been a recent concern. (RELATED:Tiffany Makes Affordability Centerpiece of Wisconsin Governor Campaign)
The Packers will play seven games against teams that reached the playoffs last season, including four games against reigning division champions. Green Bay also has to navigate six NFC North matchups after every team in the division finished 2025 with at least nine victories. They will start on the 13th of September when they travel to Minnesota to take on the Vikings and won’t return to Green Bay until Week 3 versus the Atlanta Falcons.
