When Josh Jacobs entered the NFL as the 24th overall pick in the 2019 draft, few could have predicted the immediate impact he would make.
His rookie year with the Oakland Raiders was nothing short of spectacular, setting the foundation for what promised to be an exceptional career.
Table of Contents
- Rookie Season Overview
- Key Highlights From His Rookie Year
- Playing Style and Strengths
- Signs of Early Promise in the NFL
- Impact on the Raiders’ Offense
Rookie Season Overview
Josh Jacobs quickly emerged as one of the NFL’s most effective running backs during his rookie campaign in 2019. Over the course of the season, he managed to rush for 1,150 yards and scored 7 touchdowns, remarkable numbers for any first-year player.
His performance earned him significant attention as a workhorse back, capable of carrying a heavy load for the Raiders’ offense.
Jacobs showed durability and consistency, starting the majority of the games and frequently exceeding 100 rushing yards, which is a great achievement for any rookie navigating the physical demands of the NFL.
Key Highlights From His Rookie Year
- Rushing Yards: 1,150 yards on the ground, showing explosive run-after-contact ability.
- Touchdowns: Scored 7 rushing touchdowns, highlighting his effectiveness in the red zone and goal-line situations.
- Memorable Runs: Jacobs showcased multiple runs breaking through tackles, including a notable burst against the Broncos where he remained on his feet despite defenders’ efforts.
- Work Ethic: Demonstrated relentless effort, breaking missed tackles and pushing forward for extra yards repeatedly.
Playing Style and Strengths
One of Josh Jacobs’ defining attributes during his rookie season was his combination of power and agility. Unlike pure speed backs, Jacobs blends a physical running style with impressive vision to find holes in the defense.
His ability to stay balanced through contact and create yards after first hits stood out as an NFL rookie. This style makes him tough to tackle and a reliable asset in both short-yardage and open-field situations.
Additionally, his competence in pass protection and receiving out of the backfield added versatility to the Raiders’ offense, an important trait for a running back in today’s game.
Signs of Early Promise in the NFL
His rookie season stats and highlight plays were early indicators of a potentially elite NFL career. Analysts praised his ability to take on a heavy workload without a drop in production.
Many scouts and commentators noted Jacobs’ patience and football IQ as impressive, showing maturity beyond a typical rookie. His successful adaptation to the NFL pace hinted that his best years were ahead.
The recognition he received — including discussions about Offensive Rookie of the Year candidacy — reflected the league’s acknowledgment of his impact.
“Josh Jacobs immediately changed the Raiders’ offense with his relentless running style and toughness. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact was exceptional for a rookie.”
Impact on the Raiders’ Offense
Jacobs became a cornerstone of the Raiders’ ground game from the start, helping relieve pressure from the passing game by efficiently moving the chains. His presence provided stability and a physical dimension that the team had lacked.
His consistency in carrying the ball set the tone for the offense, allowing the Raiders to control the clock and wear down opposing defenses.
- Helped improve the Raiders’ rushing attack ranking in the NFL.
- Frequently contributed in key third-down conversions through successful runs and check-down receptions.
- Earned the trust of coaches and teammates as a dependable offensive weapon early in his career.