The 6-foot-4, 264-pound bruiser is a running back in a large linebacker's body, and his frame is ideal for short-yardage situations. Plus, the 28-year-old has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards twice since 2007 and even scored 15 touchdowns in 2008.
While it's widely accepted that Jacobs' best days are behind him, he looks like a guy who would be an ideal short-yardage and goal-line back, and he could help the Patriots' run game in both areas.
But if the Patriots went after Jacobs, they'd be playing a real-life game of fantasy football. Whether the Giants trade or release Jacobs, he at least appears to be available for any team that wants to pick up the big-name running back who has lost his way in New York.
Yet, Jacobs has been downright ornery since early 2009 when he lost his starting job to Ahmad Bradshaw, and Jacobs has spoken out about his displeasure with that reduced role. Sunday night, due to the latest incident that ticked him off, he heaved his helmet 10 rows deep into the Lucas Oil Stadium crowd before getting reamed out by Giants head coach Tom Coughlin.
Surprisingly, Jacobs' carries increased each year from 2007-09 — from 202 to 219 to 224 — despite his less-prominent role behind Bradshaw. So, if he can't handle a shaded spotlight in a two-back system, how in the world would he feel about splitting carries with four other running backs in New England?
The Patriots have earned a reputation as a team that has been able to cure a number of mercurial personalities, but there is little reason to believe they pull the same type of magic act with Jacobs, who simply isn't worth the risk.
Should the Pats consider trading for Jacobs? Share your opinions below.
