Josh Jacobs was born on February 11, 1998, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Growing up, Jacobs faced significant adversity, including periods of homelessness. Despite these challenges, he found solace and purpose in football. Jacobs attended McLain High School in Tulsa, where he showcased his talent as a running back, rushing for over 5,000 yards and 56 touchdowns during his high school career. His impressive performances earned him a scholarship to the University of Alabama.
College Career at Alabama
Jacobs joined the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2016. While sharing the backfield with other talented running backs, he proved to be a versatile and reliable player. His sophomore season saw him playing a crucial role in Alabama’s run to the national championship. In his junior year, Jacobs excelled, totaling over 1,300 all-purpose yards and 15 touchdowns, earning MVP honors in the SEC Championship Game. His college career highlighted his toughness, versatility, and ability to perform in big moments.
NFL Draft and Early Professional Career
In the 2019 NFL Draft, Josh Jacobs was selected by the Oakland Raiders (now Las Vegas Raiders) in the first round, 24th overall. He quickly made an impact in his rookie season, rushing for over 1,150 yards and seven touchdowns, earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Jacobs’ powerful running style, combined with his ability to catch passes out of the backfield, made him a key player in the Raiders’ offense.
Rise to NFL Stardom
Jacobs continued to build on his successful rookie season. In 2020, he rushed for over 1,000 yards again and scored 12 touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the NFL’s top running backs. Jacobs’ combination of speed, agility, and strength made him a nightmare for defenses and a cornerstone of the Raiders’ offense.
Continued Success and Recognition
Throughout his career, Jacobs has consistently been one of the league’s top performers at his position. His ability to break tackles, gain tough yards, and contribute in the passing game has made him invaluable to the Raiders. Despite facing injuries and the physical toll of playing running back, Jacobs’ resilience and work ethic have kept him at the top of his game.
Net Worth and Endorsements
As of 2024, Josh Jacobs’ net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. His wealth comes from his NFL contracts, endorsements, and personal ventures. In 2019, Jacobs signed a four-year, $11.9 million contract with the Raiders, including a $6.7 million signing bonus.
Jacobs has also secured endorsements with brands like Nike, Pepsi, and Sleep Number. His compelling personal story and on-field success make him a popular figure for marketing and community engagements.
Off the Field and Personal Life
Off the field, Josh Jacobs is known for his philanthropy and dedication to giving back to the community. He has been involved in various charitable activities, particularly those focused on helping underprivileged children and addressing homelessness. Jacobs’ journey from adversity to NFL stardom inspires many, and he uses his platform to make a positive impact.
Jacobs is also an advocate for mental health awareness, openly discussing his own experiences to help others facing similar challenges. His transparency and willingness to share his story have endeared him to fans and the broader community.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Josh Jacobs’ impact on the NFL extends beyond his impressive statistics. Known for his tenacity, leadership, and resilience, Jacobs has set a high standard for running backs in the league. As he continues his career, he remains focused on achieving further success with the Raiders and contributing to his team’s aspirations.
Jacobs’ legacy is already established as one of the premier running backs of his generation. Whether he continues to break records, lead his team to championships, or inspire the next generation of athletes, Josh Jacobs’ influence on the game is undeniable and will be remembered for years to come.