5 bold predictions for the Oakland Raiders in 2019
![OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: A detailed view of Oakland Raiders helmets sitting on the bench during the National Anthem prior to their game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: A detailed view of Oakland Raiders helmets sitting on the bench during the National Anthem prior to their game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fjustblogbaby-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2017-2F09-2F610113444-atlanta-falcons-v-oakland-raiders-jpg-547def26504620218e90bba9f688c734adb3248ec6f30d81ce80ad4acffbf01d.jpg)
Josh Jacobs has over 1,700 total yards.
The Raiders zeroed in on Josh Jacobs very early in the draft process and did not hesitate to take him in the first round. Jacobs did not get a heavy workload while at Alabama, but his skill set suggests that he can quickly become a lead back in the pros.
He is a powerful downhill runner with good vision that is also capable of being a matchup piece in the passing game. And with no real competition when it comes to carries, Jacobs should be in line for a heavy workload in his rookie season.
Jacobs is in a perfect situation to have a Kareem Hunt type of rookie season which would result in over 1700 all-purpose yards. The Raiders will have a much improved offensive line baring injury so Jon Gruden will be able to establish a formidable running game and we know Derek Carr has no problem checking down to backs.
Something around 1,200 yards rushing and 500 yards receiving is the sweet spot for Jacobs and would put him in the area of top 5 in all-purpose yards for running backs in 2019. It would also put him at the top of consideration for offensive rookie of the year.