TL;DR
- Josh Jacobs, Packers' lead tailback since 2024, ranks eighth in league rushing yards.
- Jacobs will miss Week 12 against Vikings due to a knee injury.
- Emanuel Wilson is expected to handle most carries in Jacobs' absence.
- Chris Brooks and Pierre Strong Jr. may see increased roles with Jacobs sidelined.
Josh Jacobs has made the lead tailback role his own since joining the Packers via free agency in 2024.
Since the 2024 season began, the 27-year-old player holds the eighth spot in the league for rushing yards. While his output has seen a minor dip in 2025, he continues to be recognized as one of the NFL's most reliable workhorses.
His absence from Green Bay's Week 12 game against the Vikings is therefore even more noticeable. As Jacobs recovers from a knee injury, the Packers will seek alternative strategies to overcome a Minnesota defense that can occasionally be daunting.
With that, here's a look at Green Bay's RB depth chart in Week 12.
MORE: How long is Josh Jacobs expected to be out for?
Packers RB depth chart
| Position | Player |
| 1 | Josh Jacobs |
| 2 | Emanuel Wilson |
| 3 | Chris Brooks |
| 4 | Pierre Strong Jr. |
Emanuel Wilson
Wilson is expected to receive the majority of carries while Jacobs is out. He's been a consistent contributor to Matt LaFleur's offense, getting at least six carries in six games this season. Wilson gained 502 yards and scored four touchdowns last year and ought to be viewed as a reliable choice to match some of Jacobs' output.
Chris Brooks
Brooks remains somewhat of a mystery, having only recorded three rushes this season. The tailback, who wasn't drafted, has demonstrated potential as a receiver, though his role on Sunday afternoon and beyond is uncertain.
Pierre Strong Jr.
Strong has completed three NFL seasons. His performance has been inconsistent, peaking at 63 carries and 291 yards in 2022 while with the Browns. He spent time on Green Bay's practice squad in 2025, but might see more playing time with Jacobs sidelined.
MORE: Updated playoff picture for Week 12
Josh Jacobs injury update
Jacobs sustained a knee contusion during the Packers' Week 11 matchup against the Giants. He sat out Sunday's contest as a precautionary measure, though Jacobs anticipates being sidelined for only a single game, per ESPN's Rob Demovsky..