Josh Jacobs Injury Update: Will Packers RB Play vs Bears?

Josh Jacobs’ return timeline remains uncertain ahead of the Green Bay Packers’ matchup against the Chicago Bears on Saturday, December 21. The star running back is dealing with a lingering knee injury that has limited him throughout the week.

Jacobs was listed as questionable on the final injury report after missing all three practices. The Packers have not confirmed his game status, leaving his availability unresolved close to kickoff.

Josh Jacobs Injury Update and Return Timeline Details

Josh Jacobs has been managing knee soreness for several weeks, according to team officials. The issue worsened during Green Bay’s loss to the Denver Broncos, forcing the coaching staff to limit his workload.

Head coach Matt LaFleur said earlier this week that the team planned to evaluate Jacobs right up until game time. He did not practice in any capacity, which typically signals caution rather than a guaranteed absence.

The Packers officially listed Jacobs as questionable for Saturday’s game at Soldier Field. No NFL insider reports have confirmed whether he will be active, and the team has not elevated him to doubtful or ruled him out.

This season, Jacobs has already missed one game due to injury. Green Bay has taken a conservative approach with veteran players, especially late in the season when playoff positioning is at stake.

According to Associated Press coverage, Jacobs has been dealing with knee inflammation rather than a structural issue. That distinction matters, as inflammation can improve quickly but also flare up without warning.

If Jacobs is active, the Packers are expected to monitor his snap count closely. He has played 62.9 percent of the team’s offensive snaps this season, but that figure could drop if he is not at full strength.

Jacobs has been central to Green Bay’s offense in 2025. He has carried the ball 218 times for 890 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging 4.1 yards per carry. He has also contributed 270 receiving yards on 33 catches with one touchdown.

Those numbers, reported by Sports Illustrated, underline why the Packers are cautious. Losing Jacobs, even temporarily, changes the structure of the offense.

What Jacobs’ Status Means for Packers vs Bears

Green Bay’s game against Chicago carries divisional importance. The Bears’ defensive front has improved in recent weeks, making the running game a key factor.

If Jacobs is unavailable, the Packers are likely to rely more heavily on their backup running backs and short passing concepts. That could place additional pressure on quarterback Jordan Love to sustain drives.

When Jacobs has been on the field this season, the Packers have shown better balance and red-zone efficiency. His 13 rushing touchdowns lead the team and rank among the league’s top totals.

From a strategic standpoint, even a limited version of Jacobs could force Chicago to respect the run. That alone may influence defensive alignments and play-calling.

Longer term, the Packers’ priority is keeping Jacobs healthy for the remainder of the season. Rushing him back without full recovery could risk aggravating the knee issue.

As of late Friday night, Josh Jacobs’ return timeline remains day-to-day. His status for Bears vs Packers will likely be decided during pregame warmups, making him one of the key injuries to monitor this weekend.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Josh Jacobs’ injury?

Jacobs is dealing with a sore knee that has lingered for several weeks. The team has described it as knee inflammation rather than a major structural injury.

Q2: Is Josh Jacobs expected to play vs the Bears?

Jacobs is officially listed as questionable. The Packers have not confirmed his status, and a decision is expected closer to kickoff.

Q3: Did Josh Jacobs practice this week?

No. Jacobs was held out of practice all week ahead of the Bears game, which raises uncertainty about his availability.

Q4: Who replaces Josh Jacobs if he sits out?

Green Bay would rely on its backup running backs and passing game. The team has not announced any changes to the depth chart.

Q5: Has Josh Jacobs missed games this season?

Yes. Jacobs has already missed one game earlier this season due to injury, prompting cautious management of his workload.