Introduction: New Era with Josh Jacobs
The Green Bay Packers have embraced a new chapter with Josh Jacobs as their primary running back.
Since joining the team, Jacobs has become a pivotal figure on offense, showing a powerful and consistent style that
contrasts with the Packers’ previous approach. Fans and analysts alike are taking notice of how Jacobs shapes the team’s
running game and overall offensive strategy.
Breakout Performances in 2024-2025
Josh Jacobs truly announced himself during the 2024 season before building on that momentum in 2025. Although he started slow,
going four games without scoring a touchdown, Jacobs ended 2024 by tying for fifth most touchdowns in the league with 16.
This impressive scoring burst confirmed his ability to be a dominating force near the goal line.
In 2025, Jacobs continued his hard-nosed running style, accumulating 648 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns so far in the season.
His consistency as a workhorse back has been crucial for the Packers, who rely heavily on his ability to carry the offensive load during crucial drives.
Jacobs’ Role Within Packers Offense
Under Coach Matt LaFleur, Jacobs quickly became the first true workhorse running back for Green Bay. He regularly receives over 20 touches per game,
highlighting the trust the coaching staff places in him. Compared to former Packers featured backs, Jacobs brings a more physical running style which enables the team
to run powerful, inside runs that Aaron Jones’ lighter frame was less suited for.
Despite some consideration to spreading carries among backups, the lack of a comparable alternative means Jacobs remains the focal point of Green Bay’s rushing attack.
Key Stats That Define His Impact
- 2025 Season (to date): 169 rushing attempts, 648 yards, 11 rushing touchdowns
- Yards Per Carry: Around 3.8 yards per rush, showing steady, if not explosive, gains
- Career Totals: Over 7,500 rushing yards and 73 total touchdowns including receiving scores
- Touches: Averaging about 20.5 touches per game
These numbers place Jacobs among the top backs in the league in both workload and scoring, emphasizing his integral role in Green Bay’s attack.
Strengths and Playing Style
Josh Jacobs is known for his bruising, physical running style. Standing with a stocky frame, he excels at
breaking tackles and grinding out tough yards after contact. This style fits perfectly with the Packers’ recent offensive shift towards power runs and short passes.
Additionally, Jacobs possesses reliable hands and is capable of contributing in the passing game, which is valuable in versatile offensive schemes requiring catch-and-run options.
Challenges & Packers Offensive Context
While Jacobs has been a bright spot, the overall Packers offense has faced inconsistencies. Quarterback Jordan Love and receivers like Christian Watson have experienced
some performance plateaus and injuries, which sometimes limit the offense’s explosiveness.
Moreover, Jacobs’ style, which demands high physical contact, carries an injury risk. Although he has shown durability at just 25 years old, his workload suggests the need
for careful management to sustain peak performance.
“Jacobs became the centerpiece of an otherwise inconsistent offense, topping 20 touches eight times as the first true workhorse back of coach Matt LaFleur’s tenure.”
Watch Josh Jacobs in Action