Josh Jacobs Fantasy Outlook: A Deep Dive into the Raiders' Workhorse
Hey there, fantasy football enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the exciting world of Josh Jacobs, the Oakland Raiders' powerhouse running back, and giving you the lowdown on his fantasy outlook for the upcoming season. So, grab a snack, get comfortable, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and josh jacobs fantasy outlook.
Who is Josh Jacobs?
In case you've been living under a rock (or just new to fantasy football), Josh Jacobs is a 22-year-old running back for the Oakland Raiders. Drafted in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Jacobs burst onto the scene, becoming an instant fantasy football favorite. He finished his rookie season with 1,150 rushing yards, 206 receiving yards, and a total of 7 touchdowns. Not bad for a rookie, huh?
Jacobs' Fantasy Outlook: The Good
Workhorse Mentality
Jacobs has proven himself to be a workhorse, handling a heavy workload in his rookie season. He finished the year with 242 touches, ranking him 11th among running backs in that category. With the Raiders' lack of depth at the position, Jacobs is poised to continue seeing a high volume of touches in 2020.
Versatile Skill Set
Jacobs isn't just a between-the-tackles bruiser; he's got some serious receiving chops too. He caught 20 passes last season, and with his impressive hands and route-running ability, that number could see a significant increase in 2020. The Raiders' offense is expected to be more pass-heavy this year, which could translate to more opportunities for Jacobs in the receiving game.
Positive Coaching Change
The Raiders hired new head coach Jon Gruden in 2018, and while his offense has been criticized for its lack of production, there's reason to believe that could change in 2020. Gruden has brought in some offensive-minded assistants, including new offensive coordinator Greg Olson, who has a history of producing fantasy-relevant running backs.
Jacobs' Fantasy Outlook: The Not-So-Good
Raiders' Offensive Line Concerns
The Raiders' offensive line has been a source of concern for fantasy managers, and it's no secret that Jacobs' production was negatively impacted by the unit's struggles in 2019. While the Raiders have made some moves to improve the line, it's still a question mark heading into the 2020 season. If the line can't open up holes for Jacobs, his fantasy value will suffer.
Injury History
Jacobs missed two games in his rookie season due to injury, and while he's shown a high pain tolerance, it's something to keep in mind. Running backs are always at risk of injury, and Jacobs' workload could make him more susceptible to the wear and tear that comes with the position.
Competition for Touches
While the Raiders don't have much depth at running back, they did draft Lynn Bowden Jr. in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Bowden is a versatile weapon who could cut into Jacobs' receiving work, and while he's not a threat to Jacobs' starting job, he's still a name to keep an eye on.
Where Should You Draft Josh Jacobs?
Jacobs is currently going off the board as an RB1 in most fantasy drafts, with an average draft position (ADP) in the late first round or early second round. While his talent and workload make him a worthy pick at that point, it's important to consider the risks and uncertainties surrounding the Raiders' offense.
If you're considering drafting Jacobs, make sure to monitor the Raiders' offseason moves, particularly any additions to the offensive line or receiving corps. Keep an eye on Jacobs' injury status throughout the preseason, and pay attention to any developments with Bowden or other Raiders' running backs.
Final Thoughts
So, is Josh Jacobs worth drafting as an RB1 in 2020? The answer is a resounding maybe. Jacobs' talent and workload make him an exciting fantasy option, but the Raiders' offensive line concerns and injury history give fantasy managers pause. If you're considering drafting Jacobs, make sure to do your homework and stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments surrounding the Raiders' offense.
Thanks for joining us on this deep dive into Josh Jacobs' fantasy outlook! We hope you found this article helpful, and we can't wait to see how Jacobs performs in the 2020 season. Until next time, happy drafting, and may the fantasy football gods be ever in your favor!