Packers retain Jacobs amid new claims

Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur confirmed the team will keep running back Josh Jacobs on the roster. This decision comes after new records detailed allegations of physical and verbal abuse made by three women. The claims occurred years before the incident that led to Jacobs' arrest this spring.

The Packers learned of these prior accusations only after police released records last week. The documents show the women came forward following Jacobs' May 23 arrest. That arrest stemmed from an incident at his home near Green Bay with a woman.

LaFleur told reporters on Monday that the team expects Jacobs to remain a member going forward. He said the organization is allowing the NFL to complete its process. "That's really all I have to speak on," LaFleur stated.

Jacobs' attorneys disputed the new information in a statement released Sunday. They called the previous claims "unsupported and stale allegations." The statement came two days after the Hobart/Lawrence Police Department in Wisconsin made the records public.

Jacobs pleaded no contest to two misdemeanor charges in September. He was convicted of battery and fined $1,000. He also agreed to a deferred judgment agreement on a damage to property charge. The Packers allowed him to return to play in Week 7 after he was removed from the commissioner exempt list.

The running back has played in the last two games while the NFL investigation remains open. His six games on the exempt list will count toward any future suspension. Despite his return, the Packers hold the league's worst rushing offense. Jacobs has 32 carries for 75 yards and one touchdown in those two games. He also caught 11 passes for 68 yards and two receiving scores.

LaFleur discussed Jacobs' touchdown celebration against the Carolina Panthers on Thursday night. Jacobs put his hands behind his back during the move. The player explained it was an homage to the gospel song "Break Every Chain" and unrelated to his legal case. LaFleur said he spoke with Jacobs about the gesture and plans to keep the conversation private.