A new day welcomes a new update on the Josh Jacobs-saga. While the Las Vegas Raiders want the current NFL rushing champion to return to their squad, the rest of the league remains lurking. Still, will the Silver and Black’s desire to have Jacobs back be enough for him to return?
If Jacobs hasn’t signed a contract by Week 1 of the regular season, it’s ‘next man up’ mentality. Who has to answer the call? It’s Zamir White, who fullback Jakob Johnson believes is ready should he be called upon.
Let’s dive into the latest news surrounding Las Vegas’ running back position.
Did the Miami Dolphins Inquire about Josh Jacobs?
The Miami Dolphins are coming off a playoff appearance last season, and the franchise wants to ensure it won’t be a one-off. Miami has two quality wide receivers in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle; however, the Dolphins want to improve their running game.
What does this all have to do with Las Vegas? This is a Raiders blog, after all. Well, the South Florida team has had their eyes on Josh Jacobs in their quest to take their offense to another level. The Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson reported on Wednesday (h/t Dolphin Nation), citing a source, that the Dolphins inquired about the 25-year-old.
Nonetheless, Jackson does note talks between Miami and Las Vegas never advanced. Discussions not progressing shouldn’t be a surprise, considering NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported on Wednesday, citing league sources, that the Raiders have not shown an interest in trading Jacobs.
After not picking up his fifth-year rookie contract option, the franchise is learning from its mistake. Despite needing to find common ground financially, Las Vegas knows what Jacobs means to their squad. As a result, trading him and losing his production would only weaken a team trying to make the playoffs.
The Alabama product has yet to sign his franchise tag deal or work out a separate one-year contract with the Silver and Black. As the 2023 season nears, one side will have to flinch and come to the negotiating table. Regardless, Jacobs’ Week 1 status is uncertain as both parties stand firm.
Las Vegas has one more preseason game left, and then the clock officially starts ticking. What do you think, Raiders fans? Is the front office in the right with refraining from advancing any talks with teams interested in a trade such as Miami?
Is Zamir White ready to become the Raiders RB1 in Jacobs’ absence?
While the business side of the NFL keeps Jacobs away from the Raiders, a golden opportunity has been created for Zamir White. The league can only give a player so many chances to prove they’re starter material, so the 23-year-old has to make the most of the situation.
Against the San Francisco 49ers, White had 13 carries for 43 rushing yards and one touchdown. Then, when facing the Los Angeles Rams, the Georgia product had 10 carries for 40 rushing yards. If the Silver and Black have to count on White to begin the season, Jakob Johnson is more than confident in the young running back.
“What I’ll say is, man, he’s come in with a completely different attitude from last year and really worked his a– off every day to be ready,” Johnson told reporters Wednesday. “And that’s what we’re all trying to do. What happens is going to be up to the coaches and the football gods, but I think he’s definitely ready to step up.”
The second-year running back had just 17 carries and 70 rushing yards as a rookie. If White is the starting running back against the Denver Broncos on Sept. 10th, the Raiders will put him at the deep-end of the pool. Nonetheless, this is the NFL, and sometimes players have to run with opportunities whether they’re ready or not.
*Top Photo: AP Photo/Isaac Brekken
