Packers Coach LaFleur Criticized for Defending Jacobs After Plea

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur faced widespread criticism after publicly defending running back Josh Jacobs following the player's no-contest plea to misdemeanor charges of battery and criminal damage to property. The plea was entered on Thursday, September 11, 2026, in Brown County, Wisconsin Court, stemming from a May incident involving his former girlfriend. Jacobs was sentenced to a $1,000 fine for the battery charge. The criminal damage to property charge was deferred for one year and could be dismissed if he meets five conditions, including no further criminal acts, no contact with the victim, supervision, counseling, and restitution payments. Police reports state that surveillance footage from Jacobs' garage supported the victim's account of the battery and property damage. During a press conference on Friday, September 12, LaFleur was asked if the plea changed his opinion of Jacobs. "I know the guy, and I know the character of the guy," LaFleur said. "And unfortunately, situations occur in life, and it's just an unfortunate situation.