Packers GM Brian Gutekunst Praises Josh Jacobs’ Championship Mentality: ‘His Heart’s Absolutely in the Right Place’
Green Bay Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst left no ambiguity about running back Josh Jacobs’ mindset during a recent media session, emphasizing the star’s relentless drive to compete at the highest level. “His desire to win and win a championship is very strong,” Gutekunst said. “From the time we got him, he’s been that way. So his heart’s absolutely in the right place.”
The comments come as Jacobs prepares for his first season in Green Bay following a high-profile free agency move from the Las Vegas Raiders. Signed to a four-year, $48 million deal in March, Jacobs is expected to anchor the Packers’ backfield and inject a blend of physicality, leadership, and playoff-tested experience into a young roster eyeing a deep postseason run.
Jacobs’ Journey to Green Bay
A former first-round pick (2019) and two-time Pro Bowler, Jacobs arrives in Wisconsin after five seasons with the Raiders, where he led the NFL in rushing yards (1,653) in 2022 and earned a reputation as one of the league’s most durable and dynamic backs. Despite a down year in 2023 amid Las Vegas’ offensive struggles, Jacobs’ track record of clutch performances—including 34 career touchdowns and 5.0 yards per carry in 2022—convinced Gutekunst he was worth the investment.
“Josh has always been a tone-setter,” Gutekunst added. “The way he practices, the way he fights for extra yards—it’s contagious. When we talked to him, it was clear he’s here to win, not just collect a paycheck.”
Filling the Void Left by Aaron Jones
Jacobs’ signing followed the departure of longtime Packers fan favorite Aaron Jones, who was released in a cost-cutting move before joining the Minnesota Vikings. While Jones’ electric playmaking and locker room presence will be missed, Jacobs brings a different skillset: a bruising, between-the-tackles runner adept at wearing down defenses and controlling time of possession. His style aligns with Head Coach Matt LaFleur’s vision of a balanced offense to support quarterback Jordan Love’s continued development.
“Jordan’s growth last year was incredible, but we can’t ask him to carry the entire load,” LaFleur said earlier this offseason. “A back like Josh keeps defenses honest and opens up our play-action game.”
Leadership Beyond the Stats
At 26, Jacobs is already one of the most seasoned veterans in Green Bay’s youthful offensive huddle. Teammates have reportedly gravitated toward his work ethic, with second-year tight end Luke Musgrave noting Jacobs’ “all-business approach” during OTAs. His playoff experience—including a 2021 Wild Card appearance with the Raiders—also adds value to a Packers team that surprised the NFL by reaching the Divisional Round in 2023 despite being the youngest roster in the league.
“You don’t get many chances in this league,” Jacobs told reporters during minicamp. “I’ve been close [to the playoffs] before, but I came here because I believe in what they’re building. We’ve got the pieces to do something special.”
Challenges Ahead
Questions linger about Jacobs’ durability after he missed a career-high six games in 2023 with injuries, and his effectiveness behind a Packers offensive line that ranked 12th in run-blocking efficiency last season (per PFF). However, Gutekunst expressed confidence in Jacobs’ ability to rebound, citing his “low-mileage” workload compared to other backs his age (1,305 career touches) and the Packers’ emphasis on rotational depth with backups AJ Dillon and MarShawn Lloyd.
Looking to 2024
The Packers’ faith in Jacobs reflects their urgency to capitalize on Jordan Love’s affordable contract window and solidify their status as NFC contenders. In a division featuring the Detroit Lions’ ascending defense and the Chicago Bears’ revamped roster, Jacobs’ ability to grind out wins in the trenches could prove pivotal.
“We’re not here to rebuild,” Gutekunst said. “Josh embodies the mindset we want: relentless, team-first, and hungry. That’s how championships are won.”