LAS VEGAS — Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty is already turning heads at Raiders training camp, showing why the team invested the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on the Boise State product.
During Tuesday’s padded practice, Jeanty displayed the explosive running style that made him a Heisman Trophy finalist last season. Taking handoffs from quarterback Geno Smith, the 5-foot-8, 211-pound back repeatedly found cutback lanes and demonstrated remarkable balance through contact.
“He’s got this unique ability to make people miss in tight spaces,” said Raiders head coach Pete Carroll after practice. “What you’re seeing out there isn’t just speed, it’s vision and football instinct.”
Jeanty drew gasps from spectators when he bounced a seemingly stuffed run to the outside and accelerated past safety Marcus Epps for a 40-yard touchdown during team drills. Later, he showcased his receiving ability by making a difficult catch on a wheel route despite tight coverage from linebacker Divine Deablo.
Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly appears to be designing significant portions of the Raiders’ offense around Jeanty’s skill set, frequently deploying him in both zone and gap schemes. Kelly has also incorporated Jeanty into the passing game, splitting him out wide on several occasions.
“The system Coach Kelly is building really fits my style,” Jeanty said. “I’m just trying to absorb everything I can and earn the trust of my teammates.”
Veterans have taken notice of the rookie’s work ethic. Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby mentioned being impressed by Jeanty’s dedication, noting the rookie has been staying after practice for additional conditioning work.
“That kid’s going to be special,” Crosby said. “He’s approaching this like a pro already.”
The Raiders’ investment in Jeanty ($35.9 million over four years) signals their commitment to rebuilding a ground game that ranked last in the NFL last season. With Las Vegas aiming to establish a run-first identity under Carroll, Jeanty’s development will be crucial to the team’s offensive plans.
If early camp performances are any indication, the Raiders may have found their featured back for years to come. Jeanty and the Raiders continue training camp preparations ahead of their preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on August 10.
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