There’s a Reason Why Josh Jacobs Was a Pro Bowler Last Season: Raiders Running Back Proves Critics Wrong With Relentless Dominance

In a league where running backs are often considered expendable, Josh Jacobs continues to redefine what it means to be elite at the position. The Las Vegas Raiders’ star running back entered the 2024 NFL season with questions swirling around his long-term value after a contentious offseason, but by the end of the year, there was no question why he earned another trip to the Pro Bowl. Jacobs delivered yet another statement campaign — one fueled by grit, production, and a refusal to be overlooked.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Jacobs’ 2024 season wasn’t just impressive; it was historic in many respects. He rushed for over 1,400 yards and added another 400 yards receiving, finishing with 1,800+ scrimmage yards and 13 total touchdowns. That production placed him among the top three running backs in the league and made him a cornerstone of the Raiders’ offense. His ability to carry the workload — often in the face of stacked defensive fronts — was a major reason the Raiders remained competitive in a tough AFC West.

Perhaps most telling was his yards after contact. According to Pro Football Focus, Jacobs ranked No. 2 in the NFL in yards after first contact, proving just how difficult he was to bring down. His bruising style, combined with shifty footwork and elite vision, made him a nightmare for opposing defenders.

The Workhorse Mentality

When asked what fuels him, Jacobs doesn’t talk about money or fame. He talks about legacy. “Every time I step on the field, I’m trying to show people that the running back position still matters,” Jacobs said during a postgame interview late in the season. “I run angry, and I play with a chip on my shoulder. I don’t want to just be remembered — I want to be respected.”

That mentality has shaped his entire approach to the game. While many teams have moved to running back committees, Jacobs has embraced the role of a true workhorse. Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy called him “the engine” of the Raiders’ offense, a title Jacobs proudly wears.

In games where the passing attack stalled or injuries mounted, Jacobs remained the steady hand guiding the Raiders forward. He played through minor injuries, never complained about touches, and constantly held teammates accountable.

Proving the Doubters Wrong

Heading into the 2024 season, Jacobs was the subject of considerable doubt. After leading the league in rushing in 2022 and earning All-Pro honors, his numbers dipped slightly in 2023, leading some analysts to suggest his best years might be behind him. Adding to the uncertainty was the Raiders’ front office hesitating to commit to him long-term, instead applying the franchise tag.

But Jacobs used the noise as motivation. “I heard all the talk,” he said. “They said I was worn down. That I couldn’t be that guy again. So I made it my mission to remind everyone.”

Remind them he did. From Week 1 onward, Jacobs was a force. He posted six 100-yard games, caught passes out of the backfield like a seasoned slot receiver, and — most importantly — helped the Raiders stay afloat during a turbulent season marked by coaching changes and quarterback injuries.

Leadership Beyond the Stats

Jacobs’ impact goes far beyond the box score. He’s become a locker room leader and a voice of calm during chaotic moments. With the team undergoing a midseason coaching transition, Jacobs was one of the first players to publicly back interim head coach Antonio Pierce. His presence, both in meetings and on the field, helped stabilize the team during uncertain weeks.

Rookie players frequently credit Jacobs with mentoring them, helping them adjust to the speed of the NFL and the mental grind of a long season. “He’s the guy we all look to,” said rookie wideout Tre Tucker. “He doesn’t just talk — he leads by example. He’s always first in, last out.”

Veteran wide receiver Davante Adams echoed that sentiment, noting, “You don’t find many players who work harder than Josh. He sets the tone.”

A Pro Bowl Nod That Means More

While some players see the Pro Bowl as an afterthought, Jacobs took the honor to heart. After all, it came at a time when many had written him off. “It meant something this time,” he said. “Not because I needed validation — but because I earned it. I put in the work, and I never quit.”

The Pro Bowl announcement was met with an outpouring of support from teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Social media buzzed with highlights of Jacobs’ best runs of the season — stiff arms, spin moves, and broken tackles that seemed to defy physics.

Even rival players gave him his flowers. Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton called Jacobs “one of the toughest backs to bring down in the league.” Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa simply said, “He’s a dog. Period.”

The Future in Las Vegas

The big question moving forward is whether the Raiders will finally reward Jacobs with the long-term deal he deserves. With free agency looming again, general manager Tom Telesco hinted at a desire to keep Jacobs in silver and black.

“Josh is a culture guy,” Telesco said. “He’s exactly the type of player you want to build around. We’ll have those conversations, and we hope he’s a Raider for a long time.”

Jacobs, for his part, remains focused on football. “I let my agent handle that,” he said. “My job is to run the ball and help us win. That’s where my mind is.”

Still, it’s hard to imagine the Raiders offense without him. His blend of power and finesse is rare, and his ability to elevate teammates makes him indispensable.

The Legacy He’s Building

At just 26 years old, Jacobs is already cementing himself as one of the best backs in Raiders history. He ranks third all-time in franchise rushing yards and could take over the top spot within the next two seasons if he stays healthy.

But beyond stats, Jacobs is creating a legacy built on resilience. From a humble upbringing in Tulsa, Oklahoma — where he once slept in cars with his father — to starring on the NFL’s biggest stages, his journey is one of perseverance.

“He represents what this game is about,” said Hall of Famer Marcus Allen. “Hard work, heart, and never backing down. That’s what makes him special.”

In a season full of ups and downs for the Las Vegas Raiders, one constant was the presence and production of Josh Jacobs. His Pro Bowl season wasn’t just about stats — it was about silencing critics, leading with integrity, and showing why running backs still matter in today’s NFL.

There’s a reason he was a Pro Bowler. And if this season is any indication, there are many more reasons to believe Josh Jacobs is just getting started.