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What the 2020 season could look like for Josh Jacobs

Josh Jacobs could become a legitimate RB1 in 2020 by contributing more as a receiver out of the backfield.

By Ameer Tyree
Oakland Raiders running back Josh Jacobs carries the ball against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the Raiders final game at the Oakland-Alameda Coliseum before relocating to Las Vegas for the 2020 season.  Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs was one of the most talented rookies in the NFL last season. He finished eighth in rushing yards (1,150) and scored seven touchdowns. He ended his rookie season as the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year, but Las Vegas’ general manager Mike Mayock thinks he can be a more versatile contributor to the offense in 2020, per ESPN’s Matthew Berry.

The expectations

Mayock has made it clear that he believes Jacobs can be an asset as a pass catcher out of the backfield this upcoming season. He caught 20 passes for 166 yards last season. The Raiders lacked consistency at wide receiver in 2019, so making him a reliable receiving option could raise their offenses ceiling significantly.

Fantasy football impact

Jacobs was just outside the top 10 for fantasy running backs in his rookie season, but if he can add another dimension to his game, he could become a lock RB1. Backs like Christian McCaffrey, Saquon Barkley, Ezekiel Elliott all excel at catching the football. Jacobs could enter their realm with a little work.

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