3 Biggest Free Agent Decisions for Raiders’ GM and Coach in 2024 Off season
Whomever takes over the Las Vegas Raiders has some important decisions to make right away.
Running back Josh Jacobs is one of the top free agents at his position, and his potential departure could spark a total revamp of the offense.
The Raiders could experience an offensive line exodus as well, as two key pieces of the line are set to hit free agency.
Las Vegas would be wise to take the interim tag off Antonio Pierce. That decision could help the Raiders a ton in retaining some of their key free agents.
The Raiders also have work to do at a few positions in order to be a more complete team and contend for a wild-card spot in 2024 under Pierce or another first-year head coach.
Josh Jacobs
The Raiders must figure out if they want to pay Josh Jacobs or not.
Jacobs is still young in terms of running back age at 26, and if he leaves Las Vegas, he should have success elsewhere.
The Raiders have to find a way to keep Jacobs to avoid losing a massive chunk of their offensive production.
Jacobs ran for at least 800 yards in each of his five seasons and has 46 touchdowns in 73 games.
The Raiders do not have an in-house replacement for Jacobs, so they would be starting over at the position if he departs.
If he stays, it shows the team’s commitment to retaining its stars and it would give whomever the quarterback is a great backfield partner to work with.
Offensive Line
Center Andre James and offensive tackle Jermaine Eluemunor are both set to become free agents.
James and Eluemunor are both ranked in the top 65 of Pro Football Focus’ top free agents this off season.
That is a testament to the hard work they put with the Raiders, but also a warning sign to the franchise that neither player may be around for 2024.
James and Eluemunor will be coveted across the NFL and the Raiders may not be able to compete from a financial perspective if they decide to bring back Jacobs.
The Raiders have $55 million in salary cap space to work with, per Spotrac, and while that may seem like a lot, the funds could dry up fast if Jacobs returns and the team adds another offensive weapon or two.
More Support for Davante Adams
The Raiders could use an additional offensive weapon to complement Davante Adams in the passing game.
Jakobi Meyers’ free-agent signing was a success last off season and now the Raiders have to focus on building up depth.
Adams and Meyers were the only Las Vegas pass-catchers to eclipse the 400-yard mark this season.
The Raiders need more offensive weapons to compete with the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers in the AFC West.
A veteran wide receiver, like Tyler Boyd or Curtis Samuel, could be a terrific fit at a decent price.
A wide receiver chase may intensify if the Raiders fail to land Jacobs and turn their running back focus to the 2024 NFL draft.
