The Green Bay Packers saw great things with Josh Jacobs in just one season and are hoping for more in the upcoming campaign.
Jacobs became an integral part of the team’s offense, playing all 17 games and helping Green Bay reach the postseason.
The former Las Vegas Raiders back tallied an impressive 1,329 rushing yards on 301 attempts, achieving the second-best yards total in his career.
He also scored 15 rushing touchdowns, the most he’s ever had in six seasons, showing he is a valuable component on the field for quarterback Jordan Love to hand off to or throw to.
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (8).
Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
However, he could have had even better stats last season if his team hadn’t cost him so much during games.
An NFL report arrived on Friday the 13th, which some believe is an unlucky day on the calendar. Based on the NFL’s data, Jacobs led the league in a “bad luck” stat last season.
The star running back had the most rushing yards negated by penalties, 94, although that isn’t necessarily Jacobs’ fault, as Packers teammates were also responsible. He also had three touchdowns taken away due to penalties, tied for the most in the NFL.
It’s also worth noting that Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Johnson was right behind Jacobs with 87 rushing yards negated by penalties.
Despite the unfortunate stat hindrance, Jacobs still had a healthy and significant season in his Packers debut, finishing fifth amongst running backs for total rushing yards last season.
Let’s not forget, he also caught 36 passes for 342 receiving yards and a touchdown. His skills after a catch were on full display in a highlight against the Dolphins on Sunday Night Football.
The good news is there’s a new season ahead, with the Packers ready to push beyond than the Wild Card Playoffs.
In his seventh NFL season, a talented and powerful back like Jacobs could perform better than he did in 2024. However, his teammates should really cut down on those penalties to help him progress in Green Bay.
