Raiders Opinion: Late May Musings

While meandering through the doldrums of the NFL summer, each team has an endless supply of questions. As a result, the Las Vegas Raiders do not sit immune to this phenomenon. In fact, they could be one of the team holding the most question marks, heading into 2021. Yet, many of these answers are right there for the answer.

Is Josh Jacobs an elite back?

No. And honestly, he doesn’t need to be one. While an above-average back, Jacobs’ lack of a breakaway gear keeps him in the next group of running backs. The Raiders need what Jacobs offers: a grinder with the burst to move the chains, breaking off an occasionally 15-yard run. Additionally, with a lead, Jon Gruden loves closing the show with a steady diet of Jacobs. Kenyan Drake will provide a bit more explosiveness to the backfield. Not to mention, Jon Gruden managed to alleviate the thoughts of overworking Jacobs. In his twenty-eight career games, Jacobs averages eighteen carries a game. Within the construct of the Raiders offense, Jacobs serves well as a smartly deployed workhorse. Plus, elite and top ten feel rather weird at times. The Raiders properly use Josh Jacobs. With that said, the rest of the running backs must give the Raiders productive snaps.

What happens with Carl Nassib?

At this point, the Raiders hope that somewhere Nassib can slide into the rotation. If you are honest, you will admit that the signing sticks out like a sore thumb and a mistake. Nassib’s contract doesn’t fit his production. Also, you cannot absolve Nassib’s subpar play due to Paul Guenther’s defense. In fact, the Raiders deactivated him for a pair of games in 2020. A healthy scratch, making all of that money, remains the poorest look for Mayock/Gruden. Gus Bradley will spot snap Nassib. Subpackages look like the way to go.

How do fans not fall into camp hype?

Remember Latroy Lewis, or Chris Warren III. These were standout players that starred in camp. Yet, the Raiders cut them before the start of the season. With ninety on the current roster, chances are, your camp favorite will not make the final 53-man spot. Under those circumstances, the best advice remains to watch and observe. Granted, Jalen Richard shined during his rookie camp. Additionally, his first regular-season carry went seventy-yards to the house. Yet, he never broke out, providing the Raiders with a change-of-pace threat.