Josh Jacobs is a player to keep an eye on this offseason. Former Las Vegas Raiders general manager Dave Ziegler did not sign him to a multi-year contract and instead retainedhim on the franchise tag, which he increased to $11.8 million this season.
With a new general manager due to take over next season, it’s uncertain how much a running back will be worth. Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay believes Jacobs’ days in Las Vegas are numbered. Kay anticipated that the Pro Bowler will join the New England Patriots during the offseason.
“While Jacobs is still finding the end zone somewhat regularly (he has six touchdowns on the year) and is flirting with a career-best showing as a pass-catcher—he has 35 receptions for 280 yards over the first 12 games—his market won’t be too hot due to his meager 3.5 yards per carry,” Kay wrote in a column on Nov. 29. “Jacobs looks primed to land with a non-contender for 2024, likely one flush with cap space that needs a ball carrier to shoulder a heavy load due to a lack of talent under center.”
Under Bill Belichick, the Patriots have not paid running backs, although there is a chance he will leave after the season. Depending on who replaces him, they may be interested in bringing in a very good running back to build around.
Josh Jacobs Could Still Return
It’s impossible to predict whether Josh Jacobs will play for the Raiders next season. That will be determined largely by the team’s decision. If interim head coach Antonio Pierce continues his job, Jacobs’ return becomes much more likely. Pierce has praised him and desires a run-first offense.
Now, if the Raiders decide to completely rebuild, keeping a pricey running back on the roster makes little sense. Jacobs is still young, at 25, but he is unlikely to play through another losing season. Even if the team is rebuilding, a coach may want to construct the offense around Jacobs, but it’s uncertain if he’d be interested.
The Raiders might possibly hire a well-known coach such as Jim Harbaugh. Jacobs is exactly the type of tough-minded guy he’d want to coach. There are numerous possibilities for Jacobs’ comeback, but it must make sense for all parties.
Las Vegas Raiders Have Big Decisions
After former head coach Jon Gruden retired, the Raiders averted a thorough overhaul. Davante Adams, Kolton Miller, and Maxx Crosby are among the high-priced veterans on the roster. If you decide to rebuild, you may lose those guys.
However, in order to establish a more consistent team, clubs may require a total reset. Owner Mark Davis must decide whether to try to make it work with what he has or to blow up the entire club.
It’s a difficult decision because there’s no guarantee the team won’t be in a continual rebuild for years to come. The Raiders have potential, and a successful offseason, along with the hire of the proper coach, might help the team return to the playoffs.
