Raiders running back Josh Jacobs named PFWA Offensive Rookie of Year

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Josh Jacobs had an excellent rookie year, which now is validated with an award. The Raiders running back was named Offensive Rookie of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America on Tuesday morning, a just result for the first-round NFL draft pick.

Jacobs had 1,150 yards on 242 carries over 13 games, though he missed three of the last four contests due to a shoulder injury. He had seven touchdowns, averaged 4.8 yards per carry and broke tackles at a crazy clip.

He averaged 3.48 yards per carry after contact and, according to analytics site Pro Football Focus, forced 78 missed tackles as a rusher and receiver.

49ers edge rusher Nick Bosa was named the PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year, and overall Rookie of the Year as well. Jacobs was the only Raiders player to make the PFWA’s all-rookie team. Maxx Crosby was not included despite having 10 sacks in a standout season.

This award is important, generally a precursor to winning the AP Rookie of the Year award, which is given out the night before the Super Bowl.

Jacobs was a slam-dunk choice earlier in the year, but his shoulder injury made this a tighter competition. PFF gave Titans receiver A.J. Brown the award, and Philadelphia running back Miles Sanders and Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray were also in the mix.

[RELATED: Gruden, Mayocck spotted at East-West Shrine Bowl practice]

Jacobs fronts an excellent Raiders rookie class, a foundational unit that also includes Crosby and receiver Hunter Renfrow.

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