The Las Vegas Raiders appear ready to hand the keys to their ground game over to rookie running back Ashton Jeanty.
After a promising start to his first NFL season, Jeanty is expected to shoulder a heavier workload in the weeks ahead, a clear sign that head coach Pete Carroll and his staff trust the young back’s ability to handle a feature role.
Ashton Jeanty Poised for Bigger Role in Raiders’ Backfield
Through the early part of the season, Jeanty has averaged 16 carries per game, contributing both as a runner and a spark of energy for the Raiders’ offense. That number, however, is set to climb.
Pete Carroll confirmed that the team plans to increase Jeanty’s usage to around 20 carries per game, roughly a 25% jump in volume.
“I don’t think there’s any doubt he is [ready],” Carroll said when asked if Jeanty can handle the increased responsibility. “He’s tough…he delivers punishment and can take it well too. It’s a long haul, and we have to make sure we’re managing him right. …We should expect around 20 carries a game, somewhere in there.”
In fact, this plan started last week, when Jeanty had 23 carries for 75 yards against the Tennessee Titans.
Jeanty has already impressed with his balance, burst, and ability to find extra yards after contact. Now, with more opportunities coming his way, the 21-year-old running back could quickly become one of the focal points of the Raiders’ offense as they look to build an identity under Carroll.
Jeanty Growing More Comfortable Each Week
For Jeanty, the adjustments to the NFL have been both a mental and physical battle. Coming out of Boise State, where he was a do-it-all playmaker, the rookie has shown strides in transitioning to the professional level, but he admits that experience and preparation have made the game start to “slow down.”
“Yeah, most definitely,” Jeanty said when asked about his comfort level. “Just getting more comfortable in the scheme, and obviously being able to study teams and different players week-to-week, just enhancing my abilities and getting better at my details.”
That growing familiarity with the Raiders’ system and his weekly preparation has been evident on the field. Jeanty’s patience behind the line of scrimmage and ability to shed tackles have been key in helping him earn the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates.
To the point where Jeanty is allowed to go back to his famous Michael Myers stance.
Still, despite the grind of his first NFL season, he’s making sure to keep things in perspective and enjoy the ride.
“Yeah, you gotta have fun when you’re out there,” Jeanty said with a smile. “It’s a tough game, and stuff doesn’t go your way, but I mean I’m always gonna have a good time out there on the field.”
As the season progresses, Jeanty’s expanded role could be a major factor in how the Raiders’ offense evolves.
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