The Las Vegas Raiders hit out of the park when they drafted running back Josh Jacobs two years ago. Now, the former Alabama standout is receiving NFL-wide praise and recognition.Â
With the 2021 preseason now underway, it’s only a matter of time before Jacobs gets to run through the Raiders’ opponents. Anyone who follows the Silver and Black is familiar with the running back’s bruising and punishing style. He’s proven in his short career that not even an injured shoulder will keep him from playing. Recently, the NFL began to release its annual Top 100 Players list, and yes, Jacobs cracked the list at number 68.
Many fans feel that the national media is usually biased when it comes to Raiders coverage. When the team does good, they don’t get any credit. By the same token, when they struggle, national talking heads bury the team. However, this particular list is made up of player votes. So naturally, it’s exciting to see fellow NFL players recognize members of the Raiders. As far as Jacobs is concerned, this year could end being the biggest of his career. When it comes to his ranking, ’28’ actually moved up four spots from last year’s list so that’s promising.
Jacobs will be getting lots of help this year…
Recognition aside, NFL.com pointed out that Jacobs will be in an interesting position this year. After this season, the running back will be eligible for an extension, so that’s something to keep an eye on. As far as on-the-field developments, there were many this offseason. Kenyan Drake’s signing will mean Jacobs can stay healthier but his carries will naturally go down. Obviously, this could end up affecting his numbers at the season’s end.
Despite coming off a Pro Bowl season in 2020, the offensive line he ran behind received a makeover. This too will play a major factor in his production this season. Barring a major injury or some sort of setback, we shouldn’t be surprised to see Jacobs continue to crawl up this list next year around this time.
*Top Photo: AP Photo/John Bazemore
