The Las Vegas Raiders are bracing for a potential setback in their backfield as the regular season approaches. Head coach Klint Kubiak offered a tempered update on second-year running back Ashton Jeanty, who has been nursing a preseason ankle injury.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Kubiak did little to ease concerns about Jeanty's availability for the season opener against the Miami Dolphins. "Still on the mend, still working to get him back," Kubiak said. "We've got another week to assess how he's gonna look going into this first game, but we're counting on him."
Jeanty, a former Heisman runner-up, was expected to be a cornerstone of the Raiders' offense in what many view as a rebuilding year. With rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza learning behind veteran Kirk Cousins, the running game was supposed to provide stability. Now, Las Vegas may have to pivot.
In Jeanty's absence, fourth-round rookie Mike Washington Jr. has taken first-team reps. Kubiak expressed confidence in the former Arkansas standout, envisioning a complementary tandem once both are healthy. "I think that they're both going to prepare to play a lot of football. As these games unfold, you react to the game. I think we've got two guys that we're really excited about," Kubiak added.
The coach also emphasized a committee approach, saying, "All of our backs are going to play this year. Offense, defense and special teams. They've just got to make the most out of every rep that they get."
Fantasy football managers are understandably anxious, given Jeanty's high ADP in drafts. Social media has been flooded with reactions, from "RIP Jeanty owners (again)" to "Not as positive as you'd like considering he's still going in the top 16 in drafts." One user predicted, "He's basically half the offense. But they're either gonna rush him back and ruin his sophomore season, or monitor him correctly, but wait until Mendoza is eventually the QB1 to finally utilize him correctly."
While the Raiders' decision-making won't be swayed by fantasy implications, the timeline is crucial for the team's offensive plans. The Dolphins' defense, known for its aggressive front, could pose a challenge for a shorthanded backfield.
Jeanty's situation also adds to the intrigue of the Raiders' quarterback battle, as the team remains committed to Cousins as the starter. Meanwhile, the Raiders' recent fiery practice sessions have highlighted the intensity of training camp, though injuries like Jeanty's have tempered some enthusiasm.
As the Raiders prepare for their opener, all eyes will be on the practice field over the next week. Whether Jeanty suits up against Miami or waits another week, his health remains a top priority for a franchise looking to build for the future.
