Relax, Raiders Nation—Jeanty’s Just Fine
August 17, 2025
Raiders first round pick Ashton Jeanty got off on the wrong foot in his first NFL action last week as he took his first three professional carries for a grand total of -1 yards. Just as you’d expect, the internet chose to overreact and label this kid a bust, overwhelmed in the big lights, and overhyped as he never really had to prove himself against top competition in college (somewhat true).
After a long week of taking the heat, he drew the start in week 2 against the 49ers. He only responded by taking his first two carries for a total of 14 yards and laying a bulldozing hit on a 49er defender. No, seriously, the kid looked like a train running over a tiny 4 door sedan stuck on the tracks. If you haven’t seen it, look it up. He would come out as he appeared to take a stinger to the shoulder and miss the final plays of the drive. However, after being checked out by the Raiders training staff, was cleared to take the field for the second and final series for the Las Vegas starting offense. This time, Jeanty, would finish off the drive with his first (unofficial) professional touchdown and finish the day with 4.7 yards per carry.
The take away is to just R-E-L-A-X when it comes to the rookies taking their first professional snaps. As great as it would be for these guys to hit the ground running, sometimes it takes an extra drive or game. There’s no real reason for anyone to doubt that success will come for Ashton Jeanty as he comes into the NFL as one of the most accomplished collegiate runners of all time. Las Vegas selected him 6th overall in the Spring and will give him all of the opportunity he needs to take hold of the Raider running game.
Keith, Author
Keith runs youth flag football leagues by day, and by night he hosts the podcast and writes articles with the confidence of a man who’s been rushing quarterbacks since dial-up. A longtime flag football DE and lifelong Falcons fan, he’s no stranger to heartbreak and enjoys watching the bears get slaughtered each week. Equal parts coach, critic, and chaos, Keith calls it like he sees it… even if it hurts.
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