Packers RB Josh Jacobs Could Make Season Debut Against Lions; Micah Parsons Remains Sidelined
Green Bay could regain a key offensive weapon ahead of Sunday’s NFC North showdown at Ford Field.
DETROIT, Mich. — October 19, 2026 — The Detroit Lions could face a different Green Bay Packers offense when the two NFC North rivals meet Sunday at Ford Field.
Packers running back Josh Jacobs was removed from the NFL’s Commissioner’s Exempt List on Monday, clearing the way for his return to practice and making him eligible to play for the first time this regular season.
Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that Jacobs will practice Wednesday, October 21, but stopped short of guaranteeing his availability against Detroit.
His game status will depend on how he responds to a full week of practice.
Green Bay Looking for a Spark
Jacobs’ potential return comes at an important time for the Packers.
Despite winning three consecutive games, Green Bay has struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack.
The Packers are averaging just 59.8 rushing yards per game and 2.9 yards per carry, placing them near the bottom of the NFL.
Jacobs could provide an immediate boost.
The veteran running back rushed for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns during the 2025 season and has recorded four 1,000-yard rushing seasons during his career.
Although Jacobs has continued conditioning and attending team meetings, he has not participated in regular-season practices or games.
That makes his readiness for Sunday an important question.
LaFleur acknowledged that Jacobs has maintained his conditioning but still needs to adjust to live football activity.
Micah Parsons Won’t Practice This Week
While Green Bay could regain Jacobs, the Packers will remain without another major contributor.
Star edge rusher Micah Parsons will not practice this week as he continues recovering from the torn ACL he suffered last December.
LaFleur confirmed that Parsons has not cleared the necessary medical hurdles to return.
His continued absence is significant for Detroit’s offense as it prepares for the divisional matchup.
What It Means for Detroit
For the Lions, Jacobs’ potential return adds another consideration to their defensive preparation.
Detroit must be prepared for Green Bay to lean more heavily on its running game if Jacobs is cleared to play.
His ability to generate yards after contact and contribute near the goal line could change how the Packers approach the matchup.
However, his workload remains uncertain after missing the first six games.
Detroit will also have an opportunity to take advantage of a Green Bay defense that continues to play without Parsons.
A Critical NFC North Matchup
The Lions return from their bye week to host the Packers on Sunday, October 25, at Ford Field.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET.
Green Bay enters the matchup riding a three-game winning streak, adding another layer of importance to the divisional contest.
Whether Jacobs returns or not, Sunday’s matchup presents an important test for both teams.
For Detroit, the objective remains the same: defend home field and strengthen its position in the NFC North.
Game Information
Matchup: Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions
Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
Kickoff: 4:25 p.m. ET
Location: Ford Field, Detroit
TV: FOX
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