The Oakland Raiders had three first-round picks in this year’s NFL Draft, and the offensive selection of the trio will have the biggest impact as a rookie.
His dream already came true in going from homeless to the pros, but Josh Jacobs has an opportunity to be the starter and leader of a team.
After sharing carries at the University of Alabama, the Raiders are without Marshawn Lynch, Isaiah Crowell and Doug Martin.
Per a report from NFL.com, the Raiders released Martin on Sunday.
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With Lynch out of football and Crowell injured, the rushing attack to help Derek Carr rests squarely on Jacobs’ shoulders for this season.
A fresh player out of college, Jacobs defined “versatility” under Nick Saban.
He was explosive as a rusher, receiver and return specialist through three seasons (2016-18) with the Crimson Tide.
The 5-foot-10, 220-pounder tallied 1,491 yards rushing, 571 yards receiving and 514 kick return yards with 22 total touchdowns. Once a three-star recruit from Tulsa, Okla., Jacobs carries a strong sense of self, toughness and leadership that will build the Raiders into a strong team.
Oakland chose him with the No. 24 overall pick and he is about to set the league on fire.
The Raiders will open its regular season versus Denver on Sept. 9.
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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.
