Josh Jacobs

Joshua Martique Jacobs was born February 11, 1998, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His childhood was marked by periods of homelessness and hardship — a story he has discussed publicly to highlight the role that faith, family, and football played in his survival. He was raised primarily by his father Marty Jacobs, who has been a constant presence in his life and career, and has eight siblings. That upbringing has become central to Jacobs's identity as a player and to his advocacy for youth in challenging circumstances.

Jacobs attended McLain High School in Tulsa and was a lightly recruited three-star prospect who eventually signed with Alabama, overcoming the odds to earn a scholarship at one of the nation's elite programs. He worked his way up the Crimson Tide depth chart behind several future NFL backs and played key roles on Alabama's 2017 and 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship teams, culminating in the memorable title run after the 2017 season.

The Oakland Raiders selected Jacobs 24th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. He won NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year with a 1,150-yard rookie campaign and became the featured back in Las Vegas after the franchise's relocation. In 2022 he led the NFL in rushing with 1,653 yards — a career year that earned him first-team All-Pro honors and solidified his status among the league's elite runners.

Jacobs signed with the Green Bay Packers in 2024, bringing his physical downhill style to an emerging NFC offense paired with Jordan Love. The move revitalized his production, and he has established himself as one of the key offensive figures in Green Bay's bid to return to perennial contender status.

His career résumé includes Offensive Rookie of the Year, a rushing title, first-team All-Pro honors, multiple Pro Bowl selections, and double-digit rushing touchdown seasons. His combination of physicality at the goal line, contact balance, and pass-catching ability has made him one of the most complete running backs of his draft class.

Off the field, Jacobs has been a vocal advocate for homeless youth and for those facing childhood instability. He returns frequently to his Tulsa community, where he has funded programs for food insecurity and youth football. He maintains endorsement relationships with Jordan Brand, Panini, and others, and has been a visible figure in NFLPA efforts to improve contract structures for running backs during what was a challenging period for the position's market value.