Considered by most to be the best running back in the draft, the Raiders snatched him up with the 24th overall pick. Used as part of a stable of backs at Alabama, Jacobs’ talent was quite obvious. Drafted to carry the load for Gruden’s offense, the question quickly became about value more than talent. After all, the Raiders just finished 4-12 and just selected a position most consider a luxury.
Regardless, Jacobs was as advertised in his rookie year. With 1,100 yards in just 13 games, he also added seven touchdowns. Going forward, he continued to produce as he earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 2020. Although he started 2021 poorly, he finished strong en route to 1,220 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns.
Clearly looking to add a playmaker to their offense, the Raiders succeeded in doing so. Jacobs is one of the best running backs in the league and should become even better with Kenyan Drake to help carry some of the load. The only concern comes in the form of positional value. Simply, the Raiders were not in a position to be taking a first-round running back which hurts the grade here.
GRADE: C