The Las Vegas Raiders chose not to put their franchise tag on standout running back Josh Jacobs. If the veteran running back does not return to the Raiders, numerous teams will be interested in his services.
CBS Sports NFL writer Jeff Kerr named several teams that the veteran back could end up with.
“The Ravens have the No. 1 rushing offense since Lamar Jackson arrived as the starting quarterback,” the coach stated. “Every running back installed in their offense has prospered, and Jacobs would undoubtedly produce great statistics in Baltimore. The Ravens would like to add a power back to their offense, as J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards are poised to become free agents. Baltimore would want to maintain both Dobbins and Edwards, but Jacobs would be a good backup option.
“Jim Harbaugh is going to want a power back in his offense, which is where Jacobs comes into play, Kerr said.”Austin Ekeler is expected to go as an unrestricted free agent, so the Chargers will need to replace him with a No. 1 back. Jacobs is already familiar with the AFC West, and Harbaugh can get more years out of him, possibly as many as 20-22. “This would be an excellent fit.”
“The Texans have enough salary cap space ($67.3 million) to sign a No. 1 running back in free agency, and Jacobs would be an excellent complement to Dameon Pierce.” Of course, Jacobs would compete with Pierce for carries, but he would be a huge help to C.J. Stroud and relieve the pressure on him to win games late. If the Texans establish a fourth-quarter lead, Jacobs will shine.”
Kerr believes Jacobs would fit in well with the Philadelphia Eagles.
“The Eagles need to improve their running back situation after being inconsistent in the ground game in the second half of the season. D’Andre Swift might return, but he’d be better off with an efficient power back in a running back-by-committee role, which he lacked in 2023.
“Jacobs is the Eagles’ preferred north-south runner, regardless of who is the offensive coordinator. Ideally, Kellen Moore could use Jacobs as a power back in his scheme, much like he did with Ezekiel Elliott in Dallas.
