The 2019 NFL draft has produced a ton of young talent, but the debate as to who has been the best player in their rookie season has come down to just two players; 49ers’ defensive end Nick Bosa and Raiders’ running back Josh Jacobs.
Both players have been among the best at their respective positions, but it’s Jacobs, who is currently Pro Football Focus’ top-ranked rookie through 13 weeks. Take a look at PFF’s reasoning behind Jacobs’ overall grade this season:
After two of his worst performances at the NFL level in Weeks 11 and 12, Jacobs bounced back in Week 13, reclaiming his spot as the top rookie in the NFL and second highest-graded running back overall at 88.3. The elusive Jacobs has been producing missed tackles like a charm — his 61 broken tackles are eight more than anyone else and helped pave the way to his 25 rushes of 10 or more yards (fifth-most). Jacobs has been an absolute unit rushing at or between the guards, as he is PFF’s highest-graded running back on those attempts and has racked up the fourth-most yards after contact per attempts, at 3.6. In a Gruden offense that advocates a zone rushing attack, Jacobs has far from disappointed, ranking second in PFF grade in those run concepts.
Despite the Raiders falling behind early in their last two games, Jacobs has still found ways to produce. And with a must-win game against the Titans this week, look for the Raiders to lean on their rookie running back to help move the ball on offense.
The Jacobs selection at pick No. 24 was a highly-debated one, but it’s clear that he is the heart and soul of the Raiders’ offense. He is the most consistent player on their offense week in and week out. Look for their star running back to have a big game in Week 14.
[vertical-gallery id=58646]
[lawrence-newsletter]