MVP: Josh Jacobs
After the Raiders season concluded with a record of 7-9, it’s apparent that the team had many high’s and many low’s, but one constant bright spot was running back Josh Jacobs. With the Oakland offense being very dependent of Jacobs’ ground attack and working off of that, there’s nobody more deserving of the team’s most valuable player award than Jacobs.
The former Alabama running back came into his rookie season with very limited action as the full-time starter, but he had no problem taking the ball 20-plus times per game. Jacobs proved he can be an every down back in the NFL — providing Gruden’s offense with the option of catching passes out of the backfield as well as contributing in protecting Derek Carr with his pass blocking.
Jacobs finished the year with 242 carries for 1,150 yards and 7 touchdowns, which lead the team among skill position players. When it comes time for the NFL to hand out their Rookie of the Year award, the name on the card has to be Josh Jacobs.