Raiders have difficult decision to make on offensive star

Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs fell short of expectations in 2023, but it wouldn't be a surprise if the team tries to bring him back this offseason.

"The Raiders tagged Jacobs in 2022 after he led the NFL in rushing yards and yards from scrimmage," wrote Pro Football Focus contributor Marcus Mosher. "Jacobs wasn't able to have the same type of season in 2023 with his numbers down across the board. The coaching staff loves Jacobs, but it would be a surprise if they franchised him again. However, don't rule out the possibility of the Raiders signing Jacobs to a long-term deal once free agency begins."

If Las Vegas tags Jacobs again, it will cost 120 percent of his salary ($11.79M) from the previous season. OTC estimates the Raiders have $36.04M in cap space. A long-term deal for Jacobs could result in a lower cap hit, leaving more room to spend in free agency.

If Las Vegas goes that path, it would be committing to a player who might be exiting his prime. The 25-year-old posted career lows in carries (233), rushing yards (805) and rushing TDs (six). He also missed the final four games of the season with a quadriceps injury.

Backup Zamir White proved he could eventually become a solid starter during his absence. In four games as the Raiders RB1, he averaged 99.3 rushing yards per game, ran for one TD and caught nine passes for 60 yards. 

White, 24, is entering the third year of a $4.4M deal. Meanwhile, Jacobs' market value is a four-year deal worth $10.6M annually, seventh at his position.

It's one underwhelming season, and Jacobs could rebound in 2024. But it leaves the Raiders deliberating between financial flexibility this offseason and a long-term investment.