As the 2024 offseason approaches, the Las Vegas Raiders face a pivotal decision regarding their star running back, Josh Jacobs.
Despite establishing himself as a top-tier talent in the league since his debut in 2019, Jacobs experienced a downturn in performance during the 2023 season. This slump raises questions about whether the Raiders will be willing to invest heavily in retaining him during free agency.
Here, we explore two cost-effective alternatives at the running back position should the Raiders opt not to retain Jacobs.
A.J. Dillon
A potential target is A.J. Dillon, the backup running back for the Green Bay Packers. Drafted in the second round out of Boston College, Dillon has been a reliable presence for the Packers, showcasing versatility as both a backup and occasional starter.
Despite his contributions, his market value, as listed by Spotrac, sits at a modest $3.5 million for the upcoming season. This figure represents a considerable savings compared to the expected cost of retaining Jacobs.
Additionally, Dillon shares a history with the Raiders’ new offensive coordinator, Luke Getsy, having worked together in Green Bay during the 2020 and 2021 seasons, potentially enhancing his fit within the team’s system.
Another intriguing option is D’Andre Swift, who has been a standout performer for the Detroit Lions. Swift enjoyed a breakout season, surpassing 1,000 rushing yards for the first time in his career and earning his inaugural Pro Bowl selection. Should the Raiders pursue Swift, he would likely assume the role of the team’s primary running back.
With a market value of $6.7 million, according to Spotrac, Swift presents a more economical choice compared to Jacobs. Notably, Swift’s proficiency in the passing game adds another dimension to the Raiders’ offensive arsenal, offering versatility and depth to their backfield.
Ultimately, while Josh Jacobs remains a valuable asset to the Raiders, exploring alternatives in the upcoming offseason could offer financial flexibility without compromising the team’s competitiveness.
Whether through the acquisition of Dillon, Swift, or leveraging the potential of Zamir White, the Raiders have viable options to consider as they navigate the complexities of roster management and salary cap constraints.
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