Fantasy Scouting Report: Brandon Jacobs

Brandon Jacobs

New York Giants

Age: 26

Height: 6'4"

Weight: 264 lbs.

Bye: 10

Why We Like Him

Jacobs is one of the most impressive physical specimens playing in the NFL today. His size and power give him the ability to run through just about any tackler in the game.

But what’s even more astounding is his footwork and the way Jacobs can make defenders miss and outrun opponents in the open field...at 264 pounds! 

He runs behind one of the best offensive lines in football and averaged a staggering 5.0 yards per carry last year (seventh). 

In addition, Jacobs has a nose for the end zone. Last season he scored in nine games and put up five multi-touchdown performances, despite missing three games due to injury. 

Why We Don’t Like Him

Big Blue’s offensive philosophy is to wear down opponents and take advantage in the fourth quarter. This usually means employing a running back by committee approach in order to keep all of their rushers fresh for the second half.

Despite putting up a 1,000-plus-yard season in 2008, Jacobs ranked 19th in carries (219). Look for former third-string running back Ahmad Bradshaw to step into the reserve role vacated by Derrick Ward.

Additionally, Jacobs won’t get you any fantasy points through the air. He’s only caught 40 passes in four NFL seasons.

Fantasy Outlook

A lot of Jacobs’ production will depend on two things. First, can Bradshaw step up as the Giants' No. 2 running back? We think he can.

Second, can quarterback Eli Manning succeed in the passing game despite the loss of red zone target Plaxico Burress? 

This one’s a little trickier. If New York can get their passing game going and effectively move the football down the field, Jacobs will once again be a fantasy beast.

Don’t let him fall beyond the start of the second round. He’s a touchdown machine. 

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