Jakobi Meyers Early Beginnings and College Career
Born on September 11, 1996, in Lithonia, Georgia, Jakobi Meyers had an unconventional path to the NFL. Starting his football journey as a quarterback at Arabia Mountain High School, Meyers transitioned to wide receiver after joining North Carolina State University. While adjusting to this position switch, Meyers showcased his athleticism and ability to learn quickly, turning heads in his final two college seasons.
By the time he declared for the NFL Draft in 2019, Meyers had proven himself as a capable and intelligent wide receiver. However, despite his collegiate success, he went undrafted. Many NFL scouts had overlooked him, but the New England Patriots saw potential and signed him as a free agent, offering him an opportunity to prove himself on football’s biggest stage
Rising Through the Ranks in New England
Meyers’ rise to prominence in the NFL was not immediate, but his dedication and consistency quickly earned him a spot on the Patriots’ roster. As a rookie, he flashed potential with 359 receiving yards. It wasn’t long before Meyers became a key player in the Patriots’ passing game. His breakout came in the 2020 season, when he led the team with 729 receiving yards, further solidifying his place as a reliable target
Between 2020 and 2022, Meyers developed into one of New England’s top offensive threats, often stepping up when the team needed him most. He displayed excellent route running skills, football IQ, and an ability to create separation from defenders. In 2022, he posted 67 receptions for 804 yards and six touchdowns, making him the Patriots’ leading receiver
Signing with the Las Vegas Raiders
In March 2023, after four productive seasons in New England, Jakobi Meyers entered free agency and signed a three-year, $33 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. His departure from the Patriots coincided with the Raiders’ quest to bolster their receiving corps and provide support for star wideout Davante Adams
Despite his connection to the Patriots, Jakobi Meyers was excited about the fresh start in Las Vegas, where he would reunite with head coach Josh McDaniels, who previously coached him in New England. The move not only elevated Meyers’ career but also presented a new challenge: living up to high expectations while adapting to a different offensive system.
2024 Season Performance: A Strong Start
Jakobi Meyers has continued his steady production into the 2024 NFL season. In the first two games, Meyers has accumulated seven receptions for 90 yards, showing his ability to make plays when needed
His highlight performance came in the season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers, where he logged three catches for 61 yards, demonstrating his big-play potential with a long catch of 33 yards
Though he has yet to record a touchdown in 2024, Meyers has continued to prove himself as a valuable target in the Raiders’ passing game, often being the second option behind Adams. His reliable hands and knack for getting open make him a critical asset for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo.
Meyers’ Strengths on the Field
Route Running and Football IQ
Meyers has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s best route runners. His ability to create separation is largely due to his precise footwork and football intelligence. These skills were honed during his time in New England, where Meyers often faced complex defenses. He reads defensive coverage quickly and adjusts his routes accordingly, making him a dependable option for quarterbacks under pressure.
Versatility
Meyers has also proven to be a versatile player, excelling in different offensive schemes. While primarily used as a slot receiver, he can also line up on the outside. His experience with the Patriots in a variety of roles prepared him well for the flexibility required in Las Vegas. Additionally, Meyers’ willingness to contribute as a blocker makes him an all-around asset in both the passing and running games.
Underdog Mentality and Work Ethic
Having entered the league as an undrafted free agent, Meyers embodies the underdog spirit. His rise to becoming a key contributor in two different NFL teams is a testament to his work ethic and determination. Despite the challenges faced during his career, including the infamous lateral play in 2022, Meyers has bounced back stronger and has become a respected figure in the locker room.
Future Outlook: Can Meyers Reach New Heights in 2024?
As the 2024 season progresses, Meyers is poised for continued success. His role in the Raiders’ offense is clear—provide reliable production and complement Davante Adams as a secondary receiving threat. While he may not always be the flashiest player on the field, Meyers’ consistency is key to the Raiders’ offensive balance. His ability to perform in clutch situations, especially on third downs, makes him an indispensable part of the Raiders’ playoff hopes
If he can maintain his current trajectory, Jakobi Meyers could easily surpass his 2023 totals and prove to be one of the most valuable free-agent signings for Las Vegas. His potential to break through in the second half of the season, with a growing chemistry with Garoppolo, will be critical as the Raiders compete in the tough AFC West.
FAQs about Jakobi Meyers
1. How did Jakobi Meyers get into the NFL?
Meyers went undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft but was signed as a free agent by the New England Patriots, where he developed into a top receiver.
2. What position did Jakobi Meyers play in college?
Meyers started as a quarterback at NC State before transitioning to wide receiver during his college career.
3. Why did Jakobi Meyers sign with the Raiders?
Meyers signed a three-year contract with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023 after becoming a free agent. He joined the team to reunite with head coach Josh McDaniels.
4. How has Jakobi Meyers performed in 2024?
Meyers has started the 2024 season strong with seven receptions for 90 yards in two games, showing his continued reliability as a wide receiver.
5. What are Jakobi Meyers’ strengths as a player?
Meyers is known for his precise route running, football intelligence, versatility, and work ethic. He consistently excels in various offensive schemes.
