Silver Minings: One NFL analyst doesn’t think Josh Jacobs is an MVP-caliber running back

Recently, Las Vegas Raiders coach Jon Gruden said his the team’s third-year running back Josh Jacobs can be an MVP-caliber player.

Not everyone is in agreement, though. In a ranking of his top 25 NFL running backs, longtime NFL analyst Matt Williamson (no relation, but he is a friend and former co-worker) has Jacobs ranked No. 14 on his list for Pro Football Network.

This is what Matt Williamson says about Jacobs:

“There is much to like about Jacobs, but there are also key concerns. The Raiders have been very hesitant to make Jacobs a three-down back, even though he was an accomplished receiver in college. Additionally, while Jacobs shows extreme toughness, keeping him on the field has been a chore. Still, he did generate over 1,300 yards in each of his first two seasons, making the Raiders’ choice to bring in Kenyan Drake curious.”

I think I have to disagree with my friend on this one. I believe Jacobs is certainly a top-10 running back in the NFL, at least. PFF has Jacobs ranked as the No. 9 running back in the league.

While he wasn’t quite as good in his second season as he was as a rookie after being the No. 24 pick in the 2019 draft, but Jacobs is an upper-level running back. If he can stay healthy, he should be a Pro Bowl player again in 2021.

Perhaps Jacobs is underrated. Your thoughts?

In other Raiders’ links:

• PFF rankings: The Raiders are No. 20 in PFF”s first NFL power rankings of 2021.
• Better PFF rankings: PFF has their quarterback rankings and Derek Carr comes in at No. 13.
• Hoops neighbors? The NBA may expand and Las Vegas is a potential location.
• Trainer to the stars: Meet Deon Hodges, who is training several Raiders’ players this offseason.