Raiders Rookie Ashton Jeanty Shows Promise Despite Challenges

Las Vegas, Nevada – Ashton Jeanty, the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is navigating a challenging rookie season with the Raiders. The running back had an impressive collegiate career at Boise State, gaining over 5,600 total yards and scoring 56 touchdowns across three seasons.

Jeanty, son of a naval officer, has cultural roots that span two countries. He began his high school football journey in Italy before finishing in Texas, where he emerged as a top player for Lone Star High School. In his senior season with the Broncos, he led the NCAA with 2,601 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns, earning an invitation to the Heisman ceremony.

As a professional, Jeanty has experienced ups and downs similar to the Raiders’ overall performance. This season, he has shown flashes of the talent that made him a sought-after draft pick but has also faced the typical struggles of a young NFL player. In Week 4, Jeanty racked up 155 total yards and three touchdowns against the Bears, showcasing his potential.

However, his NFL debut against the Patriots was less successful, averaging only two yards per carry. In his first eight games, Jeanty recorded 487 rushing yards on 124 carries, along with 133 receiving yards and six total touchdowns. While his overall rankings among running backs in rushing yards and touchdowns are modest, advanced metrics indicate he ranks second in broken tackles with 16.

Despite the struggles of the Raiders’ offensive line, Jeanty has adapted by becoming more involved in the passing game, allowing him to utilize his skills in open space. Analysts note that he does not rely on a specific blocking scheme, making him versatile and capable of making plays even behind a struggling line.

Looking forward, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Jeanty’s experience will evolve as the season progresses. The hope is that he will continue to improve and become a central figure in the Raiders’ game strategy.