Raiders star RB Josh Jacobs deserves massive contract

By Joaquin Ruiz | Last updated Nov 21, 2022 9:07 PM ET

The Raiders' decision-making has been in question the entire season. One of their more questionable moves came before Week 1.

In April, Las Vegas' first-year duo of head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler declined Josh Jacobs' fifth-year option. Jacobs said in July that he didn't have a problem with the decision. Instead, he has let his play do the talking.

In 10 games, the former Alabama star leads the NFL in first downs with 58 and ranks third in rushing yards (930). According to Statmuse, the fourth-year veteran also leads running backs with four games of more than 150 total yards from scrimmage.

Because the Raiders declined his option, Jacobs may play elsewhere next season. Adding to the belief, Pro Football Focus' Ari Meirov named Jacobs the second-best running back to follow in free agency.

Per Spotrac, the 25-year-old would have cost Las Vegas roughly $8 million next year.

Jacobs' efforts have carried his team to three wins. Without him, Las Vegas' playoff chances are likely slimmer than the three percent figure provided by The New York Times playoff simulator.

The Raiders essentially told Jacobs that he's not worth the money. Next year, he'll have a line of suitors to prove Las Vegas wrong.

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