Ashton Jeanty’s Rookie Surge Offers Silver Lining for Struggling Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders selected running back Ashton Jeanty with the sixth overall pick. This move aimed to fix the NFL’s worst rushing offense. Jeanty’s rookie season is now providing clear vindication for the choice.

Despite the team’s ongoing struggles, Jeanty’s individual performance shines. He has surpassed 1,000 total yards from scrimmage. His growth has become a central storyline for the franchise.

Patience Pays Off for Rookie Star

Jeanty’s path to 1,000 rushing yards is within reach. He currently has approximately 830 yards on the ground. Head Coach Pete Carroll publicly acknowledged the milestone as a target.

Carroll hopes Jeanty reaches the mark in the final two games. He stressed the team won’t force the issue just for stats. According to Carroll, giving Jeanty a “couple creases” will be enough.

The coach highlighted the rookie’s developed patience. Jeanty has learned the timing needed at the line of scrimmage. This growth was evident in a breakout performance against Houston.

“He’s established himself as a threat as a catcher,” Carroll said. The coach also praised Jeanty’s pass protection skills. All-around development has defined his first professional year.

Teammates See Unlimited Potential

Quarterback Geno Smith sees even broader potential. Smith believes Jeanty could play wide receiver in the NFL. He pointed to the rookie’s great hands and understanding of spacing.

“You can tell he understands the game,” Smith stated. He emphasized Jeanty’s explosiveness with the ball in his hands. The goal is simply to get him the ball in space.

This versatility makes Jeanty a critical building block. While the Raiders’ record is disappointing, they have a cornerstone. His dual-threat ability is a blueprint for future offensive plans.

Analysts from ESPN note his rare receiving skills for a running back. This fits the modern NFL model perfectly. Jeanty represents a long-term asset for the rebuilding roster.

Ashton Jeanty’s rookie campaign proves his high draft selection was justified. His production offers a firm foundation for the Las Vegas Raiders’ future. The team now has a dynamic playmaker to build around.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: How many total yards does Ashton Jeanty have?

Ashton Jeanty has accumulated over 1,000 total yards from scrimmage. This combines his rushing and receiving yardage for the season. It is a significant mark for any rookie.

Q2: How close is Jeanty to 1,000 rushing yards?

Jeanty is approximately 170 yards away from 1,000 rushing yards. He has about 830 yards on the ground currently. Coach Carroll hopes he can achieve it in the final two games.

Q3: What did Coach Carroll say about Jeanty’s improvement?

Carroll said Jeanty has shown more patience at the line. He recognizes the timing needed with his blockers. This development has led to more explosive plays.

Q4: What did Geno Smith say about Jeanty’s versatility?

Quarterback Geno Smith said Jeanty could play slot receiver. He praised Jeanty’s hands and understanding of offensive spacing. Smith called him explosive and dynamic with the ball.

Q5: Do the Raiders still have the worst rushing offense?

Yes, the Raiders still rank last in the NFL in rushing yards per game. This is despite Ashton Jeanty’s strong individual production. The team’s overall offensive struggles have persisted.