Josh Jacobs rejects Chiefs deal due to rivalry with Raiders

Josh Jacobs, a former Raiders running back, rejected a lucrative offer from the Kansas City Chiefs due to his strong rivalry with the team. Despite the Chiefs' recent success, including two Super Bowl victories, Jacobs felt he could not transition from a rival to a member of their roster. He expressed a deep-seated animosity towards the Chiefs, stating that once a player is rivals with another team, it creates a 'genuine hate.' Instead of joining the Chiefs, Jacobs signed with the Green Bay Packers, filling the void left by Aaron Jones, who moved to the Vikings. Jacobs had a standout season in 2022, leading the NFL in rushing yards, but faced challenges in 2023, where he struggled with injuries and performance, finishing with only 805 yards. Despite this, he secured a four-year, $48 million contract in free agency. Jacobs' decision to join the Packers reflects his desire to compete against dominant teams rather than join them. He emphasized that he never wanted to be seen as a player who joined a powerhouse, preferring instead to be the one who defeats them. This mindset is rooted in his experiences during his time with the Raiders, where he faced the Chiefs ten times, winning only twice. As Jacobs prepares for the upcoming season with the Packers, they will kick off their campaign against the Eagles in Brazil, while the Chiefs will face the Ravens in Week 1. Jacobs' choice highlights the importance of team loyalty and rivalry in the NFL, shaping player decisions and career paths.