Green Bay Packers roster updates: Josh Jacobs returns, Micah Parsons injury status, and Mazi Smith signing

The Green Bay Packers are seeing significant roster changes as they navigate injuries and player returns. Running back Josh Jacobs is set to return to the lineup after being removed from the NFL commissioner’s exempt list. Head coach Matt LaFleur described Jacobs as an ‘elite level back’ who is expected to provide a spark to an offense that has struggled with rushing production throughout the season.

On the defensive side, star defender Micah Parsons remains sidelined as he recovers from a torn ACL suffered last season. LaFleur confirmed that Parsons will not practice this week ahead of the matchup against the Detroit Lions, though a return in Week 8 against the Carolina Panthers has not been ruled out. The team is taking a cautious approach to ensure he clears necessary hurdles before returning to action.

Additionally, the Packers have bolstered their defensive line depth by signing former first-round draft pick Mazi Smith to the practice squad. Smith, a former defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets, joins the unit following injuries to veteran Javon Hargrave and nose tackle Jonathan Ford.