How shameful is this: A tragic record has been set packers’s unfortunately NFL………
After catching four balls for 27 yards and no score on Sunday versus the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs now holds an unfortunate NFL record: The most receptions in an NFL career without a touchdown. Yes, despite catching 204 balls for 1,500 yards as a professional, Jacobs somehow hasn’t been able to turn one of those into a score.
On Sunday, Jacobs passed Gerald Riggs, a former three-time Pro Bowl running back for the Atlanta Falcons, for the lead in the stat. For reference, ranking third all-time in receptions without a touchdown is former Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bienemy with 146 receptions, 58 fewer than Jacobs.
Eventually, Jacobs is going to find paydirt on a catch. Even if he doesn’t, though, that doesn’t mean that he’s not a positive contributor. Heck, Hall of Fame running back Earl Campbell never scored on his 121 NFL receptions and no one holds that against him.
Since entering the league in 2019, Jacobs ranks eighth in receiving yards for a running back, behind only Austin Ekeler, Alvin Kamara, Christian McCaffrey, Aaron Jones, Leonard Fournette, Joe Mixon and D’Andre Swift. He’s also ninth in receptions, with Saquon Barkley jumping him on that statistic. Those eight running backs have collectively scored 117 receiving touchdowns since 2019, for added perspective.The Packers have plenty of options to go to at the goal line, including handing off to Jacobs, but just keep in mind that a Jacobs receiving score will get the monkey off of his back. Whenever it happens, expect a big celebration.
Josh Jacobs’ record for the most career receptions without a touchdown is indeed an unfortunate distinction, but it doesn’t detract from his value as a versatile and reliable running back. Accumulating 204 catches for 1,500 yards since entering the NFL in 2019, Jacobs has proven to be a dependable receiver out of the backfield, ranking among the top running backs in receiving yards. Yet, the absence of a touchdown adds an unusual caveat to his career achievements.
It’s a frustrating statistic because, despite his contributions in moving the ball down the field, Jacobs has missed out on the highlight moment that is often the goal for any player catching passes—crossing into the end zone. In comparison, many of his contemporaries, like Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey, have racked up numerous receiving touchdowns, emphasizing the strangeness of Jacobs’ record. However, football is a team sport, and stats alone don’t capture a player’s full contribution. The fact that he is still a critical part of the Packers’ offense and continues to rank high in receiving yards among running backs shows his importance to the team.
When Jacobs finally breaks through and catches a touchdown pass, it will be a major milestone. But until then, his inability to score from the air shouldn’t overshadow the rest of his contributions. The Hall of Fame example of Earl Campbell—who never scored a receiving touchdown despite being an all-time great—proves that a career can be remarkable, even with these odd statistical anomalies. Packers fans are likely to celebrate loudly when Jacobs finally breaks this strange streak, marking a long-awaited and well-deserved achievement in his NFL career.
Josh Jacobs’ unusual record for the most career receptions without a touchdown highlights a fascinating aspect of player statistics in the NFL. While some may view this as a blemish on his otherwise impressive resume, it underscores the complex nature of offensive football. His ability to rack up 204 receptions for 1,500 yards since entering the league in 2019 showcases his skill as a receiver, allowing him to contribute significantly to his team’s passing game. This versatility has made him a valuable asset for the Green Bay Packers, as he can effectively help in both running and passing situations.
The irony of Jacobs’ situation lies in the fact that, despite his substantial yardage and consistent performance, the absence of a touchdown has drawn attention away from his accomplishments. Unlike running backs such as Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey, who have become known for their ability to find the end zone regularly, Jacobs’ record serves as a reminder that football is often about more than just individual statistics. His contributions help to set up scoring opportunities for his teammates, emphasizing the selfless nature of the position.
Moreover, Jacobs’ situation illustrates the unpredictability of football. Touchdowns can often be the result of game situations, play calling, and the overall offensive scheme, all of which can affect a player’s scoring opportunities. When Jacobs finally scores his first receiving touchdown, it will not only be a personal triumph but also a collective celebration for fans and teammates alike. It will signify the end of an odd chapter in his career and further solidify his place as one of the top running backs in the league. In the end, Jacobs’ importance to the Packers and his impressive receiving numbers speak volumes about his skill, regardless of this statistical quirk.