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Few NFL running backs have captured the attention of fans like Josh Jacobs. Known for his explosive speed, powerful running style, and ability to break through defenses, Jacobs has solidified himself as one of the most exciting players to watch. From his humble beginnings in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to becoming the Green Bay Packers’ lead running back, Jacobs’ story is about determination, resilience, and elite performance on the field.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into his career stats, milestones, recent performances, and what makes him such a vital part of the Packers’ offensive lineup.

Early Life and College Career at Alabama

Born on February 11, 1998, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Joshua Cordell Jacobs didn’t have the easiest upbringing. He spent part of his youth without stable housing, which makes his rise to NFL stardom even more inspiring. Despite the challenges, football became his escape and passion.

Jacobs was recruited by the University of Alabama, a powerhouse in college football. Playing under coach Nick Saban, Jacobs quickly earned a reputation as a tough, versatile running back. While he shared carries in a crowded backfield, his ability to break tackles, catch passes, and perform in crucial moments caught the eyes of NFL scouts.

Key College Highlights

Played three seasons at Alabama (2016–2018).
Helped the Crimson Tide secure a College Football Playoff National Championship.
Known for his ability to excel in both rushing and receiving roles.

NFL Draft and Rookie Season with the Raiders

In the 2019 NFL Draft, Jacobs was selected 24th overall in the first round by the Oakland Raiders (later relocating to Las Vegas). From day one, he made an immediate impact.

Rookie season stats (2019):
- 1,150 rushing yards
- 7 rushing touchdowns
- 20 receptions for 166 yards

Jacobs finished his rookie year as one of the most promising backs in the league and earned the PFWA All-Rookie Team honor.

Las Vegas Raiders Years (2019–2023)

During his time with the Raiders, Jacobs became the heart of their offense. His physical running style matched the Raiders’ gritty identity.

Career Highlights with the Raiders

2020 Season: Rushed for 1,065 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
2021 Season: Overcame injuries but still managed 872 rushing yards.
2022 Season: A breakout year where Jacobs led the entire NFL in rushing yards (1,653) and added 12 rushing touchdowns. He also posted 400+ receiving yards. This season cemented his status as a top-tier RB1 in fantasy football and real life.

Jacobs’ ability to deliver in clutch games and grind out yards after contact earned him respect as one of the league’s most durable and reliable backs.

Move to the Green Bay Packers

In 2024, Jacobs signed with the Green Bay Packers, bringing his elite skillset to Lambeau Field. This move was seen as a fresh start for Jacobs and an opportunity to elevate the Packers’ run game.

Why the Packers Wanted Jacobs

To provide a consistent ground attack alongside quarterback Jordan Love.
To balance the offense and open up the passing game.
To add veteran leadership and playoff experience to a young team.

Josh Jacobs’ 2025 Season Stats (So Far)

Jacobs has already shown his value in the Packers’ offense, putting up impressive numbers in the early part of the season.

Regular Season Stats (as of October 2025):

Carries: 80
Rushing Yards: 266
Average Yards Per Carry: 3.3
Rushing Touchdowns: 4
Receptions: 10

Notable Games in 2025

Sept 29 vs. Cowboys:

- 22 carries, 86 yards, 2 touchdowns
- 4 receptions for 21 yards
- Played a major role in the thrilling 40-40 overtime tie.

Sept 21 vs. Browns:

- 16 carries for 30 yards
- 5 receptions but struggled against a tough Cleveland defense.

Sept 12 vs. Commanders:

- 23 carries for 84 yards and 1 touchdown.

Career Totals (2019–2025)

Through his NFL career so far, Jacobs has stacked up some remarkable numbers:

1,686 rushing attempts
7,140 rushing yards
4.2 average yards per carry
65 rushing touchdowns
243 receptions

These stats showcase his consistency and dominance as one of the most productive running backs in the league today.

Playing Style: What Makes Josh Jacobs Unique

Jacobs isn’t just another running back he brings a complete skill set that makes him stand out.

Strengths

Power Running: Jacobs thrives in breaking tackles and pushing for extra yards.
Vision: He has excellent field awareness, reading blocks and gaps effectively.
Pass Catching: His ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him versatile.
Durability: Despite the physical nature of his play, Jacobs consistently carries a heavy workload.

Josh Jacobs and Fantasy Football Impact

Fantasy football players know Jacobs well. He’s been a consistent RB1 option over the years, especially during his peak 2022 season.

In 2025, his performance is steady, though Packers’ offensive line struggles have limited his average yards per carry. Still, his touchdown production keeps him highly valuable in fantasy leagues.

Off-the-Field Personality and Social Media Presence

Beyond football, Jacobs is admired for his humility and resilience. He often shares his journey and motivation on platforms like Instagram (@iam_joshjacobs), where he has over 540K followers.

Jacobs uses his platform to inspire young athletes, share personal milestones, and connect with fans. His authenticity resonates with people, making him not just a great player but also a relatable public figure.

What’s Next for Josh Jacobs?

At just 27 years old, Jacobs still has several peak years ahead. If he stays healthy, he could continue climbing the all-time rushing leaderboards and potentially secure a Hall of Fame-worthy career.

For the Packers, Jacobs represents stability and explosiveness in the run game a key component as the team continues to develop under Jordan Love’s leadership.

Conclusion: Josh Jacobs’ Legacy in the Making

From a young athlete overcoming personal hardships to becoming an NFL star and Packers’ offensive powerhouse, Josh Jacobs has built a legacy defined by grit, talent, and consistency. Whether you’re following him for fantasy football purposes, cheering him on as a Packers fan, or simply admiring his journey, Jacobs is a player worth watching.

As he continues to push boundaries and deliver highlight-reel performances, one thing is clear: Josh Jacobs is far from done making history in the NFL.