𝐉𝐨𝐬𝐡 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐨𝐛𝐬 𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐲 𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐨. 𝟏 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤…Details below ⬇️⬇️Josh Jacobs Reflects on Loyalty to Alabama Despite Limited Playing Time
In a candid conversation on “The Pivot” podcast, NFL running back Josh Jacobs opened up about his decision to remain with the University of Alabama’s football program, even when he wasn’t the primary running back. Despite sharing the backfield throughout his collegiate career and never surpassing 640 rushing yards in a season, Jacobs chose to stay with the Crimson Tide, a decision that ultimately led to his selection as the 24th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft .
Jacobs’ journey at Alabama was marked by perseverance and a focus on academics. He enrolled with the intention of pursuing a degree in business management and pre-law, not necessarily aiming for an NFL career. “When I went to Bama, I went to school for business management, pre-law,” Jacobs shared. “I never thought that the NFL was a reality for me. I went to school, and I’m like, ‘I’m about to get a degree.'”
It wasn’t until his coaches and former players highlighted his potential that Jacobs began to consider a professional football career. They informed him that he had a first-round grade, which came as a surprise to Jacobs, who viewed himself as the third-string running back. “I’m like, ‘First-round grade? I’m the third back.’ I think I’ve only got more than 15 carries in one game my whole college career,” he recounted .
Jacobs’ time at Alabama wasn’t without challenges. He recalled a pivotal moment when he received a taunting penalty after a touchdown, leading to a heated exchange with head coach Nick Saban. “I scored a touchdown, and I got a taunting penalty,” Jacobs said. “Basically, me and the dude was going back and forth. I got a taunting penalty. So typical Saban fashion, especially with something that’s controllable, he cussed me out.” The confrontation escalated, and Jacobs considered transferring. However, after a conversation with coach Mike Locksley and a subsequent standout performance, Jacobs and Saban had a meeting that changed their relationship. “We sat down and we had a real conversation. And then after that, they started making plays for me in the offense and things like that. And my career just started taking off” .
Jacobs’ story is a testament to resilience and the importance of staying the course. Despite not being the lead back, his dedication and performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to a successful professional career. His experience underscores the value of perseverance and the impact of mentorship and open communication within a team.
Today, as a standout running back in the NFL, Jacobs reflects on his time at Alabama with appreciation for the lessons learned and the relationships built. His journey serves as an inspiration to athletes facing similar challenges, emphasizing that success is not solely determined by immediate recognition but by consistent effort and belief in one’s potential.
