Josh Jacobs: Can the Packers' Star Runner Shake Off Injuries for a Playoff Showdown?

Green Bay Packers' standout running back Josh Jacobs is finally feeling like himself again after a two-month struggle with a knee injury. As the team prepares for the NFC Wild Card game against the Chicago Bears, Jacobs is optimistic about his performance and the impact he can make on the field.

A Return to Form

The Packers are hopeful that a healthy Jacobs will revitalize their struggling running game. Since his injury in Week 11 against the New York Giants, Jacobs has not been the same player. However, recent practices have shown improvement, and he is eager to contribute to the team's success.

Career Highlights and Recent Struggles

Jacobs has had an impressive career, including a Pro Bowl nomination in 2024. He started the season strong, with 11 rushing touchdowns and an average of 67.6 yards per game in his first nine games. However, his performance declined in the following six games, with only two touchdowns and an average of 53.5 rushing yards per game.

Team Dynamics and Opponent Analysis

The Packers' offensive line has not been as productive as it was last year, and the team finished the season on a four-game losing streak. However, the Bears have struggled against the run, allowing an average of 134.5 rushing yards per game and 5.0 yards per carry. If Jacobs is healthy, he could make a significant impact on the game.

Contract and Past Performance

Jacobs signed a four-year, $48 million contract with the Packers before the 2024 season and was a key player in the team's fifth-ranked rushing offense. He finished sixth in the NFL in rushing yards in 2024, with 1,329 yards and 16 total touchdowns.

Coaches and Teammates Weigh In

Offensive Coordinator Adam Stenavich has noticed a difference in Jacobs' performance in recent practices. "Yeah, he looks great in practice, " Stenavich said. "Running hard. Looks fresher. So, yeah, it'll be, it'd be good going in the playoffs with him at full speed. "

Quarterback Jordan Love is also excited to have a healthy Jacobs in the backfield. "It’d be huge, " Love said. "I think that was obviously the plan with last week, trying to rest guys (against Minnesota), just trying to get guys back as healthy as possible. Obviously, this is the week when it all matters, so just trying to find ways to keep getting those guys back. "

Jacobs' Perspective

Jacobs is known for his old-school playing style and has struggled with sitting out or playing limited snaps. However, he believes that the team's approach will pay off in the end. "We gonna have to see, " Jacobs said. "It’s gonna be fun, though. Like I said, it feels good to be able to just hit the ground running, be able to actually get up to my speeds and make my cuts the way that I normally make 'em and things like that. Feels good to be able to do that. "