Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs could end up being the most coveted player in NFL free agency. That hinges on what the team’s brass has in store for him. Jacobs made it known recently that any sort of deal has to make sense for him. But before we cross that bridge, Jacobs has been busy receiving accolades for his remarkable 2022 run. Unfortunately, one award he won’t be receiving is the AP (Associated Press) Offensive Player of the Year nod. If we’re being honest, that’s quite egregious.
The simple fact that Jacobs didn’t crack the short list of finalists is dubious at best. Two of the finalists that did make the cut are Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts, both quarterbacks. The argument being made by some fans is that quarterbacks have the MVP award bestowed upon them. So, why not give the other award to positional players?
Did Raiders RB Josh Jacobs deserve to be AP Offensive Player of the Year?
Joining Mahomes and Hurts this year are Justin Jefferson and Tyreek Hill. The two wideouts had extraordinary seasons of their own. Nevertheless, Jacobs was the winner of the NFL’s rushing title with 1,653 yards on the ground for the Raiders. On top of that, Jacobs totaled 2,053 scrimmage yards this past season and became just the second player in Raiders’ history to lead the league in rushing. For his efforts, Jacobs received a Pro Bowl nod along with being designated as a First Team All-Pro.
One of the inherent flaws with awards in the NFL is that winning is a determining factor, whether voters admit it or not. For example, look at the finalists for most of these accolades; they’re on playoff teams. The fact is, the Raiders didn’t do much winning in 2022, which hurt some of the players who had outstanding seasons. Also, it’s not just Jacobs; Maxx Crosby is another example. The man who single-handedly carried the Raiders’ defense once again was snubbed. Crosby’s supporting cast is nowhere near as strong as that of the other finalists. Again, though, note the emphasis on winning.
Do what you’d like with these award nominations.
*Top Photo: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports