NFC North News: Packers to sign RB Josh Jacobs

The Green Bay Packers executed the first stunner of Monday’s legal tampering window. The Chicago Bears’ NFC North rival Packers agreed to terms with free-agent running back Josh Jacobs, according to a report from Ian Rapoport. Jacobs is now expected to join Aaron Jones in a new-look backfield.

The #Packers are expected to sign Josh Jacobs, source tell me and @TomPelissero.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2024

Jacobs’ signing in Green Bay would indicate that Jones could be departing the franchise. Jones has reportedly been displeased with the current state of his contract and is scheduled to enter a fate-deciding campaign in 2024. A mutual parting doesn’t appear to be a guarantee however with Rapoport also reporting that the Packers and Jones have made progress towards a reworked deal. Elsewhere, A.J. Dillon is an unrestricted free agent and surely won’t be returning to Green Bay after this shocking development.

The Las Vegas Raiders slapped Jacobs with the one-year franchise tag after he rushed for a league-leading 1,653 yards in 2022. Jacobs ultimately worked out a deal that contained incentives in 2023, but his production took a significant step backwards. Jacobs rushed for a career-low 805 yards while averaging a personal-worst 3.5 yards per carry.

The Packers are hoping Jacobs can recapture his previous form under new direction while sharing a backfield with Jordan Love in Green Bay. The Bears must be prepared to face Jacobs twice per campaign. Beefing up the interior of their defensive line through free agency would certainly help Chicago prepare for Green Bay’s impending pound-and-ground approach that pairs Jacobs with Jones.