Early in the Green Bay Packers’ win over the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football, that seemed like it would be one of those insane workloads for running back Josh Jacobs. In the first half, especially in the first two offensive drives, Jacobs was the center of the offense.

But after the game was in total control, and Jacobs left the field with some pain, the decision was to rest him throughout the second half. By the end of the game, Jacobs had 17 touches (13 carries and four receptions). But there’s no reason for concern.

“He wanted to go back in, but there was no need for it,” Packers head coach Matt LaFleur explained. “I actually told him at halftime, ‘We’re gonna give you another series in the second half, but I wanna get you out.’ It being a short week, getting him ready for Minnesota.”

The Packers had nine players with rushing attempts, the highest by any NFL team since 2019 and for the franchise since 1953. Beyond Jacobs, Emanuel Wilson, Chris Brooks, Christian Watson, Bo Melton, Jayden Reed, Jordan Love, Tucker Kraft, and Malik Willis had carries.

All three running backs on the active 53-man roster scored touchdowns.

“It’s a good group all around,” quarterback Jordan Love praised. “Everyone had a touchdown on that group tonight, so I think that’s always fun. Wherever those guys can get touchdowns and get those opportunities, get some touches. Obviously, Josh is the main guy in that group, and then to have Emanuel and Chris being able to come in and have some big-time runs tonight, too, breaking tackles, and just those second-effort plays. It’s a really good group that we are able to lean on.”

Jacobs, in particular, has been extremely impressive. Even with a high volume, he is still able to maintain his efficiency. On Monday, he had 5.3 yards per run.

“There are several plays that are blocked for minimal gains, and he keeps on going,” LaFleur added. “He’s got great contact balance, can make you miss, and can run through a lot of tackles. He’s always finishing forward. He does it not only in the run game, but he’s been a big weapon for us in the passing game as well.”

The Packers play the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, and that’s a big NFC North matchup. Being sure that Josh Jacobs is ready to face a top defense in the NFL is a smart process, and the running back depth showed it’s possible to do that without compromising the offense too much.