It has been reported that Las Vegas Raiders star running back Josh Jacobs is expected to return to training camp before the start of Week 1.
Jacobs has been holding out of camp amid his contract negotiations with the Raiders in hopes of securing a long-term deal. Despite the Raiders and Jacobs not agreeing on an extension just yet, it seems as though Jacobs is prepared to return to the team at any moment.
The Raiders only have a handful of practices remaining before their season opener on Sept. 10 against the Denver Broncos. With limited reps between now and then, it remains to be seen how prepared Jacobs is for the start of the regular season.
Jacobs had a monster season in 2022, leading the NFL with a career-high 1,653 rushing yards while adding 53 receptions for 400 yards to go along with 12 touchdowns. The fifth-year running back made his second Pro Bowl appearance and earned first-team All-Pro honors in what was his breakout season.
If Jacobs does not report to camp as expected or isn’t able to handle his full workload in the season opener, running back Zamir White would be next in line to receive work out of the backfield. White was a fourth-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft and has been given plenty of opportunities this preseason instead of Jacobs.
When/if Jacobs eventually does decide to return, it will be a huge boost for a Raiders offense lacking offensive playmakers outside of himself and wide receiver Davante Adams.
