The Las Vegas Raiders backfield hasn’t looked the same in training camp as they continue to be without Josh Jacobs.
Jacobs and the Raiders were unable to come to an agreement on a long-term contract extension, and while the running back can still sign a one-year deal, there hasn’t been much traction on that front. Saquon Barkley and Tony Pollard ended up signing deals with the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys, respectively, so the Raiders might look at those situations as a template for how to handle Jacobs.
As far as how Jacobs’ absence has affected the organization, people like Josh McDaniels have continued to publicly support his decision to sit out. Even his teammates have seemingly understood his holdout, though it appears some frustration is finally starting to leak as Davante Adams said he’s unhappy about his absence via Bridget Condon of NFL Network:
“Not having him right now is obviously something that I’m not happy with…he played like the best back in the league last year, which if you ask me he is the best back in the league.” Davante Adams on the absence of Josh Jacobs @CoachDavidShaw @nflnetwork #Raiders pic.twitter.com/KGAsFgIinR
— Bridget Condon (@BridgetCondon_) August 6, 2023
Like Jacobs, Adams was named to the 2022 All-Pro First-Team so it’s understandable why he would be upset about his talented teammate not being available for a pivotal part of the offseason program. Jacobs and Adams make up one of the NFL’s best running back-wide receiver duos, so the Raiders offense will expectedly take a hit if he decides to miss games in the 2023 season.
While the Raiders haven’t been publicly panicking over Jacobs’ absence, the reality is that there isn’t anyone on the current roster who can replace his talent and production. So far, players like Zamir White, Ameer Abdullah and Brandon Bolden have been taking snaps in Jacobs’ place but don’t offer the same running and pass-catching ability he does.
As of now, Jacobs appears content with holding out which could lead to more frustration from people besides Adams.
Las Vegas could rescind franchise tag on Josh Jacobs before Week 1
The franchise tag this year for running backs was worth just above $10 million, a good chunk of money though Jacobs’ 2022 campaign certainly called for him to make more. Running backs have taken exception to how much they’re being undervalued by teams, so it sounds like the Raiders star will wait until he sees more guaranteed money offered.
While Las Vegas has previously been willing to reopen negotiations with Jacobs, it sounds like they’re also considering rescinding the franchise tag and allowing him to hit the open market.
