Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs has addressed speculation surrounding his first of two touchdown celebrations during Thursday Night Football against the Carolina Panthers, firmly denying any connection to his arrest earlier this year.
During the celebration, Jacobs was seen standing in the end zone with his hands behind his back. Many viewers quickly interpreted this gesture as a reference to his arrest after he was charged with misdemeanor battery and destruction of property following an alleged incident involving a woman at his Green Bay home.
In September, Jacobs pleaded no contest to the charges. He was convicted of battery and received a deferred judgment agreement for the destruction of property charge. As a result, he spent the first
six games of the season on the commissioner’s exempt list and could face further NFL discipline.
After the game, Jacobs addressed the celebration, clarifying that it was inspired by the gospel song “Break Every Chain.” He expressed his frustration that people were attempting to associate the gesture with his legal troubles.
"They didn't even get the whole celebration," Jacobs told ESPN. "It was (expletive) one second that they just showed me."
Jacobs went on to explain that several teammates participated in the celebration, joining him in making the same gesture during the touchdown.
"I didn't think it was going to be a thing that can be perceived a certain type of way," Jacobs said. "But it's 2026, and it is what it is."
Jacobs helped lead Green Bay to a 27-19 victory against the Lions, rushing for 39 yards on 21 carries and catching six passes for 13 yards.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Green Bay Packers' Josh Jacobs denies TD celebration was tied to arrest
