What would it take for Josh Jacobs and Raiders to find common ground?

Josina Anderson sent out a post on Tuesday afternoon saying the Raiders are willing to restart contract extension talks with Josh Jacobs at any time. Do you buy it?

Perhaps as a move to save face, the front office let it be known that Jacobs holds all the cards in this negotiation. By saying that common ground does exist publicly, general manager Dave Ziegler further cemented his stance of wanting the All-Pro back.

Vincent Bonsignore said later in the day that the Raiders have always been open to talking to Jacobs, even dating back to the July 17 deadline.

But what does “common ground” look like? Is it a fairytale that Ziegler is spinning, or does such a scenario exist?

The main factor in determining a compromise begins and ends with long-term job security. The popular theory around Jacobs’ hesitancy to sign an extension with the Raiders focuses on the monetary value. While that holds merit, the real hang-up centers around security (or lack thereof).

This is the primary talking point for veteran running backs around the league. In a now infamous Zoom meeting that featured the best of the best at the position, the players in attendance voiced their displeasure. The Raiders’ unwillingness to meet Jacobs at his asking price serves as one of the sparks to the running back discourse currently ongoing in the NFL.

Of the running backs to sign top-of-the-line deals in recent years, a vast majority never see the end of it. Ezekiel Elliott and Dalvin Cook were once among the highest paid at the position; neither one has a job as of this writing. This is the uphill climb Jacobs faces.

Vegas must mend fences by showing how much the team values its star ball carrier. That doesn’t mean Ziegler should back the Brinks truck up to Jacobs’ front door. But providing more guarantees in his deal would mean more than any imaginary dollar amount.

The latest development in the Josh Jacobs story is less of a development and more of a reassurance from the Raiders. They want him back. They are willing to talk to the 25-year-old about a contract extension, but at this point, who knows if Jacobs is willing to listen? The mystery continues to cloud the franchise as it prepares for the upcoming season.

The ball is in Jacobs’ court if you believe the Raiders. I have a hunch the 2022 NFL rushing leader might see it differently. Hopefully, the two parties can put aside their difference and reconvene, even if it is only for next season. The team is infinitely better with Jacobs on the field.