Raiders: Josh Jacobs left off NFL superstar list; they were right to do so
The term superstar is thrown around lightly in the modern NFL world. But recently, Dan Hanzus of NFL.com put together a list of NFL superstars in an attempt to figure out a definitive list of the other-worldly players that can change the outlook of a game in an instant. So on his list of NFL superstar running backs, the […]
The term superstar is thrown around lightly in the modern NFL world.
But recently, Dan Hanzus of NFL.com put together a list of NFL superstars in an attempt to figure out a definitive list of the other-worldly players that can change the outlook of a game in an instant.
So on his list of NFL superstar running backs, the names that he listed as superstars in the NFL were Nick Chubb, Derrick Henry, Christian McCaffrey, and Jonathan Taylor.
Take a look at Hanzus' rationale:
Then there’s Josh Jacobs, the NFL’s reigning rushing champion and an absolute stud for the Raiders last season. Does one season of superstar production make you a superstar? I suppose it could (hi, Jonathan Taylor).
Color me a touch wary, with Jacobs coming off a season in which he ranked second in the NFL in carries (340) and first in touches (393). We’ve seen in the past how the bill can come due for that kind of workload.
Frankly, this list is right. Jacobs isn't a superstar. And with the names on that list, Jacobs isn't close to the talent there.
Jacobs' first few years in the NFL have been a hodge-podge of good, but not great running. Good, but not great intangibles. Good, but not great everything. And then last year, with a contract pending, he put together his most productive season to date. One season doesn't make a player a superstar.
It is why the Raiders would be smart to avoid inking a long-term deal with Jacobs.
Jacobs is a good running back. Not a great one. And one great season doesn't mean a player's body of work matches.
It's hard, but it is the truth. Leaving Jacobs off a superstar list is the right move to make — every time.
Josh Jacobs validates Las Vegas’ need to re-sign him
Josh Jacobs was one of the NFL's most productive running backs in 2022. He led the league in rushing yards and yards from the line of scrimmage, and he was rewarded by being named an All-Pro selection by the Associated Press. Yet, the praise didn't stop there. In a recent article by Seth Walder of […]
Feature image via Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports.
