Packers RB Josh Jacobs Lands Shockingly Low Ranking

Josh Jacobs is the poster child of how different the running back market is in 2024. The former franchise back for the Las Vegas Raiders turned in three seasons of at least 1000 yards, topping out at 1653 yards. The Raiders elected to move on instead of rewarding him for his efforts. However, the two-time Pro Bowler found a home with the Green Bay Packers and is hungry to prove his worth.

During the transition period, fans and analysts took sides, with many backing the halfback.

However, one analyst appears to have sided somewhat with the Raiders, knocking Jacobs down to 12th in his Fantasy Football rankings.

Marcus Mosher of The 33rd Team explained why.

“Josh Jacobs is another polarizing back after leading the NFL in rushing yards and yards from scrimmage in 2022. But after a rough 2023 season, the Raiders allowed Jacobs to hit free agency, and he signed with the Packers. Jacobs will be playing in the best offense of his career, but how much work will he get in Green Bay, and can he get back to being the player that he was two years ago?”

Josh Jacobs’ recent injury history creates reasons for doubt

Mosher alluded to Jacobs’ injury-laden 2023 campaign when he registered half of the production he did one year prior. According to Pro Football Reference, Jacobs totaled 1653 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2022. In 2023, he earned 805 yards and six touchdowns.

Of course, in the NFL, hoping for a player’s return to form is rarely a wish granted by the football gods. Once a player hits a down season, it can spiral. On the other hand, instead of spiraling, it could maintain or dip slightly lower. It is rare for players to suddenly go from a massive decline to a massive incline, especially for a running back in their mid-late 20s.

That’s because of how today’s running backs are built. The bigger running backs like Derrick Henry are built to last. Meanwhile, smaller running backs like Jacobs, Dalvin Cook, and others struggle to handle the high volume of hits.

In the past, most running backs were closer to tight ends in body type. Now, they are closer to average human size. With smaller size comes greater injury risks. However, it isn’t all bad. Smaller running backs can be much more elusive behind big offensive linemen. They also can be a bit more slippery to get a strong grip on for a tackle.

Will Josh Jacobs milk another season out of his prime with the Packers?

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