Oakland Raiders: Josh Jacobs ready to take on full workload

Josh Jacobs was one of the most polarizing prospects entering the draft. The Raiders selected the talented running back with the 24th overall pick, and will ask him to take on the lead role in their backfield.

Josh Jacobs was an essential figure to the Alabama Crimson Tide backfield during his time in Tuscaloosa, and is now a member of the Oakland Raiders. However, he spent the majority of his time in a rotational backfield during his time in college.

How will his talent transition into the NFL?

Despite not being an every down back in college, the tread on his tires entering the NFL will be extremely fresh. This is very uncommon for a first-round selection to not have been an every down back in college. Although, it wasn’t due to his lack of ability, but mainly because Alabama had three quality options in running the football.

Jacobs will likely be asked to carry the ball 15 to 20 times per game, as well as snagging some balls in the receiving game out of the backfield. His pass catching ability is solid, as he was consistently productive in catching passes with an average of 12.4 yards per reception in his final year of college.

On Wednesday Jacobs spoke about the fact that he’s ready to take on a full workload entering his rookie season with the Raiders.

"“It’s definitely huge, that’s definitely something I push myself towards everyday,” said Jacobs. “I try to work hard everyday so I can be able to withstand that, but also something I’ve been looking forward to in myself and see if I can handle that and take on that challenge. It’s definitely going to be fun, and will see how it goes.'”"

Jacobs is up for the challenge of being Jon Gruden’s bell cow running back for the foreseeable future. His smart instincts and vision that he possesses will be a large stepping stone for him to stay healthy over the entirety of the16 game season.

"“I”m trying to actually learn all the pass trees and the concepts,” said Jacobs. “Even though I might not be lined up out wide, I still try to learn the concepts to give me a better feel. When I’m watching film I look at every position and see how AB runs his routes, or if he spray releases and things like that just to give myself an edge.”"

Jacobs has looked towards route running to help elevate his game in his rookie campaign. With having the capability to run every route, he’ll be a mismatch for opposing linebackers trying to cover him in space. Jacobs will also be able to lean on running back Jalen Richard who has been a successful receiving option for Derek Carr over the last three seasons.

Look for Jacobs to lead the way on the ground and set the tone early in games as a physical runner. By doing so early, things for Carr and the receivers will open up more frequently with a respectable running attack.