Oakland Raiders superlatives for the 2019 NFL Draft class
By Justin Fried
Biggest Initial Impact: Josh Jacobs, RB (Alabama)
Given that the Raiders had three first-round picks and four top-40 selections, it’s safe to say that the team will be expecting some immediate impact from a lot of their newest draft additions.
The likes of Ferrell, Mullen, Renfrow, and Johnathan Abram will all likely make an immediate impact from Week 1. But one player stands above the rest as the individual primed to make big contributions right out of the starting gate — that being running back Josh Jacobs.
After a season-ending injury to the newly-signed Isaiah Crowell, Jacobs is in-line to be the team’s starting running back with very little standing in his way at the moment. Sure Jalen Richard will likely assume his role as the regular third-down back and the likes of Doug Martin, DeAndre Washington, and Chris Warren will push for some snaps, but Jacobs should be given every opportunity to make a major impact from the very first game.
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Given Jacobs pedigree and ability, expect him to capitalize on any opportunity he is given.
Jacobs burst on to the draft scene in 2018 after finally rising up the depth chart and assuming the lead-back role in Alabama. After sitting behind highly-touted recruits such as Damien Harris and Nahjee Harris for years, Jacobs finally got his chance and he did not disappoint.
The 21-year-old averaged a robust 5.3 yards per carry and totaled 11 touchdowns during his final collegiate season while playing a key role in Alabama’s offense down the stretch. While he lacks breakaway speed, Jacobs is an incredibly shifty runner who uses his superb vision to find and explode through running lanes.
Expect Jacobs to make a substantial impact early on in both the running and passing game. In fact, it may be wise to snatch him up in your fantasy leagues early as owners will likely look to capitalize on his expected early contributions.