The Truth About Josh Jacobs’ First Season with the Packers and Why His Performance Is Sparking Debate
The Numbers Tell Part of the Story
Statistically, Jacobs had a solid season in Green Bay, finishing with 1,150 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. While these numbers are impressive, they represent a notable drop from his league-leading 1,653 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns with the Raiders in 2022. His yards-per-carry average dipped from 4.9 in his final year in Las Vegas to 4.2 with the Packers.
The decline in production has sparked debate about whether Jacobs is still among the league’s elite running backs or if Green Bay’s system is limiting his potential.
Offensive Line Woes
One major factor affecting Jacobs’ performance has been Green Bay’s inconsistent offensive line play. Injuries and personnel changes throughout the season disrupted the unit’s cohesion, often leaving Jacobs to fight for yards behind a collapsing line. In several games, Jacobs faced stacked defensive fronts, limiting his opportunities for big plays.
Still, some critics argue that Jacobs hasn’t shown the same explosiveness and vision that made him such a dynamic threat in Las Vegas. His longest run of the season was just 38 yards, compared to his 86-yard highlight-reel dash last year.
A Scheme Fit Issue?
Another layer to the debate is whether Jacobs is an ideal fit for Matt LaFleur’s offensive scheme. The Packers emphasize a zone-blocking system that requires patience and lateral movement from their running backs. Jacobs thrived in a more power-oriented system with the Raiders, and some believe he hasn’t fully adapted to the Packers’ approach.
LaFleur, however, has defended Jacobs, stating, “Josh is an incredible talent, and he’s made a significant impact on this team. The stats don’t always tell the whole story. He’s been a leader and a tone-setter for us.”
The Debate Continues
Despite the criticism, Jacobs has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in key games where his physical running style helped the Packers grind out tough wins. His presence has also opened up opportunities for quarterback Jordan Love, with play-action passes becoming a more effective weapon for Green Bay.
As the Packers look ahead to the offseason, the debate over Josh Jacobs’ performance is unlikely to fade. Some believe another year in LaFleur’s system and improved offensive line play could help Jacobs return to elite form. Others question whether the Packers made the right investment in a high-priced running back during a time when the position has been devalued across the league.
For now, Jacobs’ first season with the Packers is a tale of solid contributions overshadowed by lofty expectations—and a debate that’s far from settled.
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