Packers running back Josh Jacobs cites gospel song for hand-behind-back touchdown celebration
The player explained that his gesture honored a track titled 'Break Every Chain' rather than referencing his recent arrest.
By Rafael Bailey ·
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs explained on Thursday that his controversial touchdown celebration was a tribute to a gospel song, not a reference to his recent legal issues. The 1-yard run occurred in the second quarter of a 27-19 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
During the celebration, Jacobs placed his hands behind his back for a brief moment while teammates congratulated him. The gesture drew immediate attention on social media, with many viewers interpreting the pose as a simulation of being handcuffed. Jacobs stated that the move was based on the song 'Break Every Chain.'
The player noted that his teammates suggested the idea before his season debut. They planned for him to perform a celebration thanking God after scoring his first touchdown of the year. That occurred on Sunday in a 20-17 loss in Detroit, where Jacobs knelt and raised his arms after scoring. The 'Break Every Chain' move was the designated celebration for his second score.
Jacobs defended the execution of the play, stating that the television broadcast only captured a short segment of the full performance. He told reporters that the celebration involved more than the hand placement seen on screen. 'They stopped showing the celebration after that. Like I said, that's what it is,' he said.
The incident occurs just days after Jacobs returned to active duty. He spent the previous weeks on the commissioner's exemption list, which prevented him from playing or practicing. The league removed him from that list last week, allowing him to return to the roster while an internal investigation continues.
The NFL's review follows a May altercation with his then-girlfriend, who alleged he threw her to the floor. Charges were filed in August, leading to his placement on the exemption list. Last month, Jacobs decided not to contest the misdemeanor charges for assault and criminal damage to property.
This was Jacobs' second game of the season. He acknowledged the timing of the celebration given the recent events. 'I didn't think it was something that could be perceived in a certain way. But we're in 2026, and that's what it is,' Jacobs said.
