Oakland Raiders look to expand Josh Jacobs’ role within the offense
Over the first two weeks of the NFL season, Josh Jacobs has stacked two quality performances. However, the Raiders believe they can get even more production from their rookie running back.
Before Josh Jacobs was selected No.24 overall in the 2019 draft, he received the label of being a ‘every down back.’ During the course of the scouting process many evaluators praised the former Alabama running back – not just for his ability to carry the load on the ground, but his involvement in the receiving game.
Despite sharing the workload in the Alabama backfield, he averaged 12.4-yards per reception, totaling 247-yards and three touchdowns in his final college season.
As a member of the Oakland Raiders, he’s been exactly the type of runner that Jon Gruden could have imagined when he spent a first-round pick on Jacobs. He currently finds himself as the leagues fourth leading rusher with 184-yards on the ground.
While his running attack has been a bright spot for the Raiders offense, Jacobs role as a pass catcher has been nearly nonexistent. He’s only caught one pass for 28-yards.
Gruden has kept a tight leash on his new featured back while he gets accustomed to handling 20-plus carries a game in the NFL. From being utilized in a backfield by committee in college, to now being put into a role as Gruden’s bell-cow back, a transition period is definitely what many expected.
Now that he’s received a taste of what it’s like to play in the NFL, offensive coordinator Greg Olson looks to get him more involved in pass catching situations and wants to expand his role.
"“It’s still early in the season, but we’re happy with Josh Jacobs,” said Olson during his Thursday press conference. “When we have put the ball in his hands, certainly he’s produced, so we’ll look to expand his role as well.”"
Jacobs did publicly announce via his instagram account that he’s been sick this week and lost 10-pounds. He was a limited participant in Thursday’s practice with a hip injury, but all indications are he’ll be ready to go on Sunday.
Next. Oakland Raiders Tyrell Williams in slot is a matchup nightmare for the Vikings. dark
Whether or not his role in the offense will expand this week, or in the near future remains unknown, but one thing that is certain – Jacobs is the Raiders biggest spark plug offensively. He’s a gifted runner that can make people miss in space, so getting him involved as a pass catcher is something the offense must look to do with him on the field.