Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs is among the NFL stars planning to holdout during training camp in an effort to land a new contract. While Saquon Barkley’s holdout might prove successful, it appears that won’t be the case for Jacobs.
Whereas Barkley and the New York Giants have recently engaged in contract talks, the same can’t be said for Jacobs. Coming off an All-Pro season, Las Vegas appears set on letting Jacobs play out the 2023 season on the franchise tag.
- Josh Jacobs stats (2022): 1,653 rushing yards, 12 rushing touchdowns, 93 first downs, 4.9 yards per carry, 2,053 scrimmage yards
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It opens the door for Jacobs to extend his holdout into the regular season, sitting out Week 1 and potentially even longer. While he wants to be part of the Raiders’ backfield for several years, the early signals out of Las Vegas are that the desire isn’t entirely mutual.
Examining Jacobs’ current situation in Las Vegas, ESPN’s Dan Graziano explained why he thinks the Raiders could easily let Jacobs walk after the upcoming season.
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“I haven’t heard as much on the Jacobs situation, which could indicate that he’s less likely to get his deal. Obviously, a lot can change, and if one of these guys signs before the deadline, he’ll establish a framework the other one can use.
Barkley getting a deal could make it more likely that Jacobs gets one, too. But McDaniels has engaged in a lot of roster turnover since he got to Vegas, indicating that he didn’t love what was in place before he got there. I would not be at all surprised to see the Raiders go with Option 3 on Jacobs and do nothing.”
Dan Graziano on Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs
Owed $10 million fully guaranteed this upcoming season, Jacobs isn’t subject to any fines for missing training camp because he hasn’t signed his contract. Las Vegas can negotiate with him until the extension deadline until July 17, but it appears a long-term deal isn’t happening.
- Josh Jacobs contract: $10.091 million salary, 2024 free agent
At that point, Jacobs will have to determine exactly how long he’s willing to sit out. Once an extension is off the table, the only way for Jacosb to maintain his value is by playing in 2023.