Packers Trade For RB Kaleb Johnson With Josh Jacobs Out

by Robert BluteSeptember 7, 2026, 2:50 pm >

The Green Bay Packers have acquired Kaleb Johnson from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team needed to fill a void at running back after their main man, Josh Jacobs, landed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List.

The Commissioner’s Exempt List means Jacobs is not allowed to attend games or practices. Jacobs was officially charged on Thursday with charges that have to do with a physical altercation with his girlfriend.

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Jacobs’ team released this statement: “Josh Jacobs has been placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, which is an administrative procedure used by the NFL while a matter is being reviewed.” The team made it clear that Jacobs respects the decision as well.

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Jacobs’ future in Green Bay is now in jeopardy, leaving the Packers with a void to fill. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said that he fully expected Jacobs to be with the team before, so it doesn’t seem like this was a move they had been looking to make before the Jacobs news came out. They eventually went with Johnson.

In return, the Steelers acquired a Packers 2028 sixth-round pick.

Johnson had 28 attempts for 69 yards in 2025, which was his first season in the league. Right now, it seems like he will be the 3rd option behind MarShawn Lloyd and Chris Brooks.

Jacobs has no return date yet, as he is suspended indefinitely until the NFL reviews his case. His court date is November 17, and the suspension could last until then or longer. That date takes place during Week 11.

The Packers open up their season in two weeks against the Vikings in a battle in the NFC North. Johnson should be suited up for that game unless anything changes.