The Las Vegas Raiders are gearing up for their first preseason game, but star running back Josh Jacobs is noticeably absent from the team. Jacobs has yet to sign his franchise tag deal worth $10.1 million for the season, leading to frustrations within the organization. Wide receiver Davante Adams has been vocal about his disappointment with Jacobs’ absence and believes he is the best back in the league.
All of this merits a closer look. Thankfully, you have us here at the Raider Ramble.
Josh Jacobs’ Stellar Performance and Underpayment
Last season, Josh Jacobs showcased his exceptional skills on the field, amassing an impressive 1,653 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, and an average of 4.9 yards per carry. Despite his stellar performance, Jacobs remains underpaid compared to the league’s top-paid running backs. The offer of $10.1 million falls short by approximately $6 million when compared to the average annual salary of Christian McCaffrey. This disparity in compensation has undoubtedly fueled Jacobs’ desire for a new contract.
The thing is, Jacobs has people in his corner. We’re referring to All-Pro wideout Davante Adams, one of Jacobs’ biggest advocates and friends on the squad.
Davante Adams’ Advocacy for JJ8
Adams praised Jacobs as the best running back in the league and expressed his discontent with Jacobs’ absence during training camp. There is no doubt that Adams understands the frustration of not feeling valued by the organization. You could argue he experienced a similar situation during his time with the Green Bay Packers. His support for Jacobs highlights the unity and camaraderie within the team. It goes without saying that Adams recognizes the significant role Jacobs plays in the offense and as a team leader.
Davante Adams’ frustration with Josh Jacobs’ absence stems from the impact it has on the team’s preparation for the upcoming season. Adams emphasized the Raiders’ reliance on a strong running game and the absence of Jacobs as significant hurdles to overcome. The team must work together and find ways to compensate for Jacobs’ absence during training camp to ensure they are ready for the challenges ahead. The uncertainty of the entire situation adds layers of complexity and ambiguity.
However, that’s not all. There’s also the “PR” side to all of this.
Adams’ candid remarks about Jacobs’ absence sparked reactions on social media. Fans, analysts, and NFL enthusiasts have discussed and debated the contract negotiations and the implications for the Raiders’ season. The effects of fans expressing support on the internet likely won’t have any effect on negotiations. Still, it’s not a good look.
The complexity increases for the Raiders
The anxiety surrounding Jacobs’ contract situation has attracted interest from rival teams within the AFC West. According to sources, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Denver Broncos have expressed interest in acquiring the All-Pro. The effects of moving Jacobs within the division could be paramount, and not in a good way.
His performance this past season made him the de facto Raiders’ best player, as recognized by his ranking as the 12th-best player on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2023 list. This acknowledgment further solidifies his standing as one of the league’s elite running backs. The remote possibility of Jacobs switching squads within the conference could have a disastrous effect on the Raiders’ locker room. As you can see this dilemma is a serious one.
While the team is eager to have their star running back on the field, they face limitations in negotiating a long-term contract until after the 2023 season. The best they can offer Jacobs at the moment is a one-year deal that surpasses the guaranteed $10.1 million from the franchise tag. The Raiders must navigate the delicate balance of valuing Jacobs’ contributions while adhering to the constraints imposed by league rules and financial considerations.
With preseason here, the clock is ticking on all of this. Adams, and surely the rest of the Raiders locker room, wants Jacobs back in the mix. Unfortunately, in the world of contract negotiations, things are rarely easy.
*Top Photo: RaidersResistance/IG