One of the most difficult decisions the Raiders will have to make this offseason is whether or not they will re-sign former All-Pro RB Josh Jacobs.
After leading the NFL in rushing yards and scrimmage yards in 2022, Jacobs had a severe dropoff in production and efficiency. Plus, he missed the final four games of the season with an injury.
In a recent article by ESPN, they wrote about the likelihood of Jacobs re-signing with the team in 2024. Here is a snippet of what senior writer Paul Gutierez had to say about that possibility:
What followed was his worst season to date, with the 2019 first-rounder finishing with career lows in rushing yards (805), yards-per-carry average (3.5), touchdowns (6) and games played (13).
Still, he is a favorite of team owner Mark Davis and coach Antonio Pierce, though new general manager Tom Telesco has no relationship with Jacobs. Jacobs said he was all-in if Pierce returned. But at what price?
What complicates this situation is that Zamir White, a fourth-round pick in the 2022 class, played extremely well during the absence of Jacobs. While he isn’t quite as dynamic, he is far cheaper and has less wear and tear on his body.
The Raiders would love to have Jacobs return in 2024, but it can’t be at $10 million a season. Jacobs would like a long-term deal, but it seems unlikely that new GM Tom Telesco will be willing to pay up for a running back going into their sixth season.
