Josh Jacobs update: Judge rejects sealing order over ‘improper format'

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs remains on the NFL’s commissioner’s exempt list as his legal case continues.

The status conference is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, to address whether video evidence from the incident will remain sealed.

The 28-year-old Jacobs pleaded no contest on September 10 to misdemeanour battery and criminal damage to property stemming from a May altercation with his ex-girlfriend at his Hobart home.

He was found guilty of battery and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine plus costs. For the property damage charge, he received a deferred judgment requiring 12 months of conditions, including no contact with the victim, counselling, and restitution.

However, the judge temporarily sealed the evidence on September 10. ANM, who was the ex-girlfriend of Jacobs, petitioned the judge to permanently seal the evidence based on Marsy's Law, which is a Wisconsin law protecting the privacy, dignity, and safety of the victims. The NFL and media companies have sought access to the videos, which the league needs to investigate Jacobs’ case.

In addition, on September 17, the judge declined the motion to seal the evidence because of the “improper format,” thus keeping the issue unresolved.

Jacobs has been on the exempt list since August 30, and he has missed three games so far. According to the NFL collective bargaining agreement, six games is a standard punishment for a domestic violence case. In addition, a player on the exempt list accrues a suspension period as well. 

Thus, when Jacobs receives a six-game suspension, after three games already missed, he can play again in Week 7 of the season against the Detroit Lions on October 25. Moreover, he will have to pay back his earnings on the exempt list.

The NFL punishment for Jacobs is expected to come after the conclusion of the case.