Oakland Raiders: Grading every 2019 NFL Draft pick
Round 1, Pick 24: Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
Oakland’s favorite son, Marshawn Lynch, announced his retirement just before the 2019 NFL Draft. Regardless of his retirement, the Raiders needed to bring in a running back. Doug Martin may not make the team, Jalen Richard is more of a third-down back and the bruising Chris Warren is recovering from a knee injury.
More from NFL Spin Zone
- Dallas Cowboys made the trade everyone else should have made
- Pittsburgh Steelers rookie sleeper everyone should be talking about
- Anthony Richardson putting jaw-dropping talent on display immediately
- Denver Broncos’ stud wide receiver might be out for a while
- Washington Commanders: Three takeaways from win over Ravens
Isaiah Crowell was one of their free agent acquisitions, but had hardly ever established himself as a reliable No. 1 option. Now he’s injured and out for the season already, meaning he won’t get that opportunity in Oakland.
The No. 24 pick, was part of the blockbuster trade that sent Khalil Mack to the Chicago Bears. Mayock taking Jacobs with the 24th pick wasn’t all that surprising. In fact, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah mocked Jacobs to the Raiders at that spot. Still, after running a 4.6-second 40-yard dash, one could argue his value dropped to being a Round 2 player.
Mayock didn’t care about the 40 time and understandably so. Jacobs’ vision and change of direction are second to none. He’s 5-11, 200 pounds with great feet, leg drive and solid power. On third downs, he’s a reliable receiver and blocker.
With tenacious runners like David Montgomery, Benny Snell and Miles Sanders being available later, it’s hard to get behind this pick. Much like the Ferrell pick, Mayock valued Jacobs’ intangibles giving them yet another new-look Raiders guy.
Grade: B