Josh Jacobs Injury Update: Will Packers RB Play in Week 7 vs. Cardinals?

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs is officially a game-time decision ahead of Sunday’s Week 7 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. The star rusher is battling both an illness and a calf injury, casting serious doubt on his availability for the crucial NFC clash.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Jacobs’ status remains “up in the air,” with the team planning to evaluate him during pregame warmups. The Packers will not know whether their lead back can suit up until just before kickoff, making his situation one of the biggest storylines heading into Sunday.

Josh Jacobs Injury Status: Game-Time Decision in Week 7

The uncertainty surrounding Josh Jacobs stems from a combination of factors. He has been dealing with a calf injury that limited him in practice this week, and he is also reportedly battling an illness. The dual setbacks have forced the Packers to make contingency plans as they prepare to host the Cardinals.

In a notable roster move, Green Bay promoted running back Pierre Strong from the practice squad to the active roster on Saturday. That decision could be a hint about Jacobs’ condition — teams often make such moves when they anticipate a player might not be ready to go. While it’s possible Jacobs could still suit up, Strong’s promotion suggests the Packers are preparing for his absence.

If Jacobs is ruled out, Emanuel Wilson is expected to take over lead back duties. Wilson, an undrafted free agent in his third NFL season, has shown flashes in limited action. Through five games this season, he has rushed for 84 yards on 18 carries, averaging an impressive 5.0 yards per attempt. Although he has never started an NFL game, Wilson’s efficiency and fresh legs could provide a spark against Arizona’s defense.

Jacobs’ potential absence would be a major blow to Green Bay’s offense. Since signing with the Packers after five seasons with the Raiders, the former first-round pick has been a key piece of Matt LaFleur’s attack. In 2024, he ran for 1,329 yards and 15 touchdowns in his first season in Wisconsin. Through five games this year, he’s continued that pace with 359 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 98 carries.

What Jacobs’ Status Means for Packers and Fantasy Football

For the Packers, losing Josh Jacobs would mean leaning on an inexperienced backfield in a pivotal Week 7 matchup. Green Bay enters Sunday needing a win to stay competitive in the NFC playoff race, and Jacobs’ physical running style has been central to their offensive success. Without him, the Packers may have to rely more heavily on quarterback Jordan Love and the passing game.

Fantasy football managers are also closely watching Jacobs’ status. If he is ruled out, Emanuel Wilson immediately becomes a strong waiver wire or flex option, given the volume he’s likely to see. Pierre Strong could also factor into the rotation, particularly on passing downs.

For now, Jacobs’ Week 7 status will come down to how he responds in pregame testing. Packers fans and fantasy managers alike will need to monitor reports right up until kickoff for the final decision.

Josh Jacobs’ injury situation remains one of the most important storylines heading into Week 7. Whether he plays or not could significantly shape the Packers’ offensive approach against the Cardinals — and have ripple effects for their playoff hopes and fantasy football matchups alike.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Josh Jacobs play in Week 7 against the Cardinals?

Josh Jacobs is a true game-time decision due to a calf injury and illness. His final status will be determined after pregame warmups.

Q2: Who will replace Josh Jacobs if he is out?

Emanuel Wilson is expected to lead the Packers’ backfield if Jacobs cannot play, with Pierre Strong also available after being promoted from the practice squad.

Q3: How has Josh Jacobs performed this season?

Jacobs has rushed for 359 yards and six touchdowns on 98 carries through the first five games of the 2025 season.

Q4: What does Jacobs’ injury mean for fantasy football?

If Jacobs is out, Emanuel Wilson becomes a valuable fantasy pickup, likely handling most of the carries against Arizona.

Q5: When will the final decision on Jacobs be made?

The Packers will make a final decision on Jacobs’ status just before kickoff on Sunday, based on how he looks in pregame warmups.