Raiders coach Jon Gruden showers rookie running back Josh Jacobs with praise often, but he still wants more. Specifically, he wants Jacobs more involved in the passing game, according to The Athletic’s Jimmy Durkin.
Jacobs ranks eighth in the NFL in rushing, with 258 yards, but has just one reception. His single grab went for a 28-yard gain in the Raiders’ Week 1 win against the Broncos. It was at a pivotal point on the game, when the contest was in danger of slipping away.
Quarterback Derek Carr has targeted Jacobs just three times this season, however, despite that success. The Raiders were down by multiple scores early in their last two games, and Jacobs’ usage has gone down across the board since his 24 touches against the Broncos. He suffered a hip injury against the Chiefs, as well, further limiting his impact.
As long as Jacobs is on the field, he’s ready to give Gruden what he’s looking for. If the coach is adamant about getting Jacobs the ball in space, he has to power to call a play for him. Whether that happens or not, Jacobs is too skilled to target just three times in three weeks. The Raiders need a jolt on offense, and more of Jacobs in the passing game could very well provide it.
