After debuting with the Las Vegas Raiders in the NFL, Josh Jacobs has increasingly emerged as a pivotal offensive asset for the team. His standout displays during the 2022 season prompted the Raiders to extend his contract for an additional year.
However, as the 2023 season approached, Jacobs encountered difficulties both on and off the field. Despite his desire for a clean slate, his performance dwindled, and he faced off-field controversies. Ultimately, the Raiders opted to release him, allowing him to pursue opportunities in the free-agent market.
Will the Bears sign Josh Jacobs?
Josh Jacobs is poised to explore free agency for the first time in his career after five seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders. Amidst speculation, reports suggest that the All-Pro running back harbors a strong desire to don the iconic navy and orange jersey of the Chicago Bears.
During a recent episode of The Chicago Bears Podcast, former Bears fullback and gameday sideline reporter Jason McKie revealed insights about Jacobs’ interest in joining the Bears.
“Josh would love to be in a Chicago Bears uniform. There’s mutual interest,” McKie said.
McKie later highlighted the running back’s versatility, describing him as a “do-everything back” and a reliable three-down player with skills both in rushing and receiving.
“The guy’s only 26 years old and he’s a do-everything back as well. He’s a three-down back, is good out of the backfield.”
The former Bears player even took his support a step further, personally texting Jacobs’ agent and expressing his belief that Jacobs would look fantastic in a Bears uniform.
Meanwhile, with approximately $56.5 million in cap space, the Bears are in a favorable position to make a substantial move in free agency. Considering Jacobs’ prowess on the field, he could be the missing piece for the Bears’ backfield, complementing the talents of Roschon Johnson and Khalil Herbert.
Spotrac projects the 26-year-old’s market value at an estimated $31.7 million over a new three-year contract. If the stars align, Chicago may witness the exciting arrival of Josh Jacobs, adding a dynamic playmaker to their roster for the upcoming season.
Josh Jacobs performance in 2023 NFL season
In 2023, Jacobs faced a dip in production, tallying 805 yards on 233 carries with six touchdowns, marking a career-low average of 3.5 yards per carry in 13 games. The former Bears player also contributed to the passing game, securing 37 receptions for 296 yards.
Nevertheless, those who saw the former Bears player in the previous season, know the prowess he carries. In 2022, he led the NFL in rushing yards with 1,653 while adding 12 rushing touchdowns, per Larry Brown Sports. Though the Raiders team struggled, the Alabama product was the center point of the Raiders’ offense under Josh McDaniels in 2022.
The receiver has averaged 4.2 yards per carry in his career. His stellar performance propelled him to make two Pro Bowls throughout his career.
Seeing his lackluster performance last season, do you think that the Bears will sign him? Tell us what you think in the comments section.
