Las Vegas Raiders running-back Josh Jacobs is the latest NFL star to seek a bumper contract, and he's even warned the Raiders about using the franchise tag.
Jacobs is heading for the free-agency as things stand, but is confident of securing a mega-money contract before the start of next season. The Raiders are clearly desperate to keep their star running-back, but are yet to sort a new deal for Jacobs.
The Raiders do have the option to use the franchise tag and stop Jacobs from hitting the free-agency market for another year. However, Jacobs has already told the franchise that's not a decision that he would be happy with.
Jacobs led the NFL for rushing yards this season, and his stock continues to rise as one of the best running-backs in the league. But with that rising stock, Jacobs wants to make sure he's rewarded financially, and is expecting a big offer from the Raiders.
As a key part of their offense, it's likely they'll make give him an exceptional package too, although it may not be right away. But Jacobs has already made a key financial statement by hinting that a guaranteed salary of $10million is not enough.
If the Raiders use their franchise tag, Jacobs will earn close to $10.1m for the 2023 season. "Ooh, hero turned villain," Jacobs said when asked what his response would be to being tagged. "Hero turned villain, man."
However, the tag may be the best option for the Raiders as they'll want to make sure he can replicate his stunning season before offering a huge deal. They're also looking for a new quarterback, so have a lot to consider this off-season.
Jacobs feels like he's in a great position though, despite all the possible factors that could come into play. "I feel like I’m in the driver’s seat, you know what I’m saying?" Jacobs said at Saturday’s Pro Bowl festivities.
"I control the ship. However it goes, that’s how it’s going to go, you know what I’m saying? So, I’m not too much worried about it, but it’s definitely got to make sense."
The 24-year-old scooped up the NFL rushing title for the 2022 season, leading the league with 1,653 yards. There's no denying his quality, especially at a young age, but the Raiders want to make sure it's a consistent trend.
Jacobs had 872 rushing yards the previous season, almost half of his latest haul. But he still managed nine touchdowns that season, and he's continued to prove his worth since being drafted in 2019.
