Packers coach Matt LaFleur defends Josh Jacobs after star convicted of battering woman

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur defended Josh Jacobs on Friday, just one day after the star running back was convicted of battering a woman.LaFleur told reporters during a press conference that his feelings on his star player had not changed despite the three-time Pro Bowler’s no contest pleas to misdemeanor counts of battery and criminal damage to property on Thursday.When asked why, LaFleur said, “I know the guy.And I know the character of the guy.

I’ve said it many times.And unfortunately situations occur in life, and it’s just an unfortunate situation.”Jacobs was hit with the criminal charges on Aug.

27, after authorities alleged they obtained video that showed him putting his hands on his girlfriend during a heated dispute at his Brown County, Wis.home in May.Investigators alleged in a criminal complaint that Jacobs grabbed the woman and “threw her to the ground,” causing her injury.

They also claimed in the filing that Jacobs was seen on video taking the woman’s phone during the spat and appearing to damage it.When a judge asked Jacobs during the announcement of the football player’s plea deal on Thursday if “the information contained in the probable cause section of the criminal complaint” was “true and correct,” Jacobs responded, “yes.”Given Jacobs’ admission, LaFleur was asked for his rationale behind keeping Jacobs on the Packers’ roster, but he bristled.“Guys,” LaFleur said.“I’m not going to get into any of this until the league completes their investigation.”Jacobs has been barred from practicing or playing for Green Bay since the NFL placed him on the commissioner’s exempt list on Aug.

30.At Thursday’s court proceedings, Jacobs stated he stated he understood “the seriousness of the situation” and was taking “full responsibility” for his actions.Jacobs was ultimately sentenced to a fine of $1,000 plus costs for the battery count, and his sentence for the criminal damage to property count was sus...