Raiders Running Back Options If Josh Jacobs Holds Out
As Josh Jacobs awaits a long term deal, there is a possibility of Jacobs holding out his real.
The Las Vegas Raiders franchised tagged running back Josh Jacobs in March, but he did not sign the tag because he wanted a long-term deal. The Raiders and the Jacobs have until July 17 to come to an agreement.
Jacobs has been posting cryptic tweets, which has started speculation of Jacobs holding out.
Jacobs led the NFL in rushing with 1,653 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also caught 53 passes; Jacobs has become a reliable pass catcher out of the backfield. He has become an integral part of the Raiders offense, and the Raiders can't take the prospect of his absence lightly.
If Jacobs holds out, there are many routes the Raiders could use for running backs, they could sign Dalvin Cook or Ezekiel Elliot, but I expect they would stay in-house with the running back situation.
Who Are The Options For Josh Jacobs?
Last year the Raiders drafted two running backs in the NFL Draft. Las Vegas took Zamir White in the fourth round and Brittain Brown in the seventh round.
White rushed for 70 yards on 17 carries last season. He averaged 4.1 yards per rush, with his longest rush was 22 yards. If Jacobs holds out, the Raiders will be banking on a solid year two from White. He has the potential to be a good running back; he needs the touches.
Brown was inactive all last season for the Raiders; they were scared to put him on the practice squad because of the fear that some other team would claim Brown.
Also, last season, the Raiders signed running backs Brandon Bolden and Ameer Abdullah; both running backs are expected back this upcoming season.
Abdullah had 25 grabs for 211 yards and a score last year; Bolden had nine catches for 57 yards and one touchdown. Both players could battle for the third-down/pass-catching role while White and Brown fight for early-down carries.
Although Bolden has passed his prime, he still adds value with special teams' play. We could easily see the Raiders go the committee route, but their best bet is to sign Jacobs to a long-term deal.
I know the running back's value is gone down, but for the Raiders offense, the running game is crucial. Especially with Jimmy Garoppolo possibly starting at quarterback, he plays better with a strong rushing attack.
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