He is the No. 1 running back in this year’s NFL Draft class and on Thursday night, he expects to create much value – especially being in the bottom portion of the first round.
Josh Jacobs turned in a strong three-year career at the University of Alabama in providing versatility on offense and special teams. While he is strong between the tackles, despite his size at 5-foot-10 and 220 pounds, Jacobs’ hands at receiver and return specialist are indispensable.
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During his junior year, the former three-star collected 1,315 all-purpose (640 rushing, 247 receiving, 428 kick return) with 15 touchdowns and was an absolute nightmare for defensive coordinators to scheme for. He fits the modern-day version of a National Football League back and there are four teams that are interested on using its first pick on him in Nashville, Tenn.
According to Chase Goodbread, a draft analyst for NFL.com, the Oklahoma native has only visited the Colts, Ravens and Eagles throughout the process.
RB Josh Jacobs says he visited #Colts, #Eagles, #Ravens only. No private workouts.
— Chase Goodbread (@ChaseGoodbread) April 24, 2019
Baltimore, who recently acquired Mark Ingram in free agency, carries the 22nd overall pick.
Philadelphia has the 25th pick and Indianapolis has the No. 26 pick.
For the Colts, head coach Frank Reich has mentioned the team needs a game-changing rusher. Diversity at the position is something that made the Eagles successful in recent years with players like Brian Westbrook, Duce Staley, LeSean McCoy and Darren Sproles.
Should it make the move for Jacobs, Philadelphia would take pressure of Carson Wentz as he enters his third year at quarterback.
As for the fourth franchise, the Oakland Raiders have made a late push.
Per reports, Marshawn Lynch is not returning to the team and head coach Jon Gruden finds himself in need of a back. Oakland, who has three first-round picks, have been projected by various analysts to take Jacobs at either No. 24 or No. 27 overall.
The man who once had no real home is now in high demand.
Which team ends up winning Jacobs? We will hear from Commissioner Roger Goodell soon.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
