Fantasy Alert: Packers Reportedly See Josh Jacobs as 'Eddie Lacy in His Prime'

The Green Bay Packers see shades of a different one-time Pro Bowler in star running back Josh Jacobs.

NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported Monday they agreed to a four-year, $48 million deal with Jacobs. Rob Demovsky of ESPN explained why Green Bay felt this opportunity was too good to turn down.

"While Jacobs might not be a guy LaFleur would line up in the slot or outside as a receiver like he did at times with [Aaron] Jones, the Packers believe his versatility as a rusher and receiver makes him dynamic," he wrote. "In terms of play style, the Packers see him as similar to Eddie Lacy in his prime — a powerful back who defenders don't want to tackle in the open field."

Lacy's prime didn't extend for very long, but for two years he was a highly effective figure in the Packers offense. Between 2013 and 2014, he totaled 3,001 yards from scrimmage, 24 touchdowns and averaged 4.4 yards per carry.

The comparison between Lacy and Jacobs is a little unnecessary in that there's already a proof of concept with the latter.

Jacobs had 1,000-plus rushing yards in each of his first two years and then was the NFL's leading rusher (1,653 yards) in 2022. Most Packers fans will know what the 5'10", 223-pound ball-carrier can do and how physical he can be.

Demovsky's report is more instructive in that it sounds like Jacobs will get plenty of touches, maybe not the 340 carries he logged two seasons ago but a figure that basically matches the rest of his Las Vegas Raiders tenure.

While quarterback Jordan Love is a big part of Green Bay's present and future, the ground game will be a clear focal point as well in 2024.