When the Oakland Raiders selected running back Josh Jacobs in the first round of April’s draft, he instantly became one of the favorites to win Rookie of the Year Honors.
According to Pro Football Focus, Jacobs is the third-most likely player to win the award, just behind Kyler Murray and Miles Sanders. Take a look at their thoughts on the Raiders’ new running back and his potential impact in Year 1.
The do-it-all running back should be pumped carries and targets with little competition at the position in the Oakland offense. Where he’ll likely shine is around the goal line. Jacobs had the highest percentage of carries that resulted in first downs or touchdowns of any running back in college football last season.
Jacobs’ odds to win the award likely depends on how involved he is in the passing game. With the team still having Jalen Richard on the roster, that could eat into his opportunities on third down. But if Jacobs proves to be the more dangerous and polished receiver, he could easily eclipse 300 total touches as a rookie.
Look for Jacobs to surpass 1,000 total yards and close to double-digit touchdowns as a rookie as he will certainly be in contention for winning the Rookie of the Year award.
