There will be more eyes on the Las Vegas Raiders next season given their coaching change and the heightened expectations around the team.
As such, the AFC outfit will want to have their best players available when they head into 2024 under Antonio Pierce. Star running back Josh Jacobs is one such player and, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, they are keen on keeping him around.
The Raiders franchised tagged Jacobs last year, leading to a lengthy standoff. However, they won’t be doing so this time around as it would mean they would be required to offer him a guaranteed $14,149,200. Schefter is reporting that the team is unwilling to pay Jacobs the aforementioned sum.
The two-time Pro Bowler probably wouldn’t hesitate to sign his franchise tender if the Raiders tag him as he wouldn’t get such a contract anywhere else. The Raiders have the leverage in this situation given that running backs can no longer command mega salaries due to how replaceable they’ve become.
Jacobs also saw a dip in production last season, rushing for a career-low 805 yards and a career-low six touchdowns while averaging 3.5 yards per carry – yes, another career-low.
He didn’t have the year a player would want to have heading into a free agency. Still, he is expected to be one of the highest-paid RBs in the NFL in 2024.
