It only took one game for Ashton Jeanty to deliver his message to the NFL. After powering through defenders and scoring his first touchdown in a Las Vegas Raiders uniform, the rookie running back had two words to describe his night:
“I’ve arrived.”
Jeanty looked every bit like the bruising, versatile playmaker Las Vegas hoped for when they made him the sixth overall pick in April’s draft. Against the 49ers, he ran with the same force and balance that made him one of the most dangerous backs in college football.
From Boise to the Big Stage
At Boise State, Jeanty built his reputation as a complete running back. He rushed for more than 1,500 yards in 2024, caught passes out of the backfield, and finished as a Heisman finalist. What separated him was his physical style. Despite being just 5-foot-8, Jeanty routinely overpowered linebackers and defensive backs, refusing to go down on first contact.
That production pushed him into the top tier of the 2025 draft, where the Raiders made him their centerpiece pick. With questions about depth in their backfield, Las Vegas turned to Jeanty not just as a long-term option but as an immediate contributor.
A Statement against the 49ers
Saturday’s preseason matchup was Jeanty’s first real chance to showcase that ability. His highlight came in the first quarter, when he stiff-armed San Francisco cornerback Deommodore Lenoir on a 13-yard run. Later, he capped off an eight-play drive with a one-yard plunge into the end zone, putting the Raiders ahead early.
Jeanty finished with seven carries for 33 yards, a solid bounce back after being held to negative yards in his preseason debut the week before. More than the numbers, it was the way he ran that stood out, decisive, powerful, and unwilling to shy away from contact.
Toughness on Display
Jeanty also proved he can take a hit and keep going. On a third-and-5, he bowled over a safety to move the chains. Later, after being drilled by linebacker Luke Gifford and checked in the medical tent, he returned to action almost immediately. That toughness is exactly what the Raiders’ coaching staff wants to see from a young back fighting for a lead role.
Raiders’ plan moving forward
Las Vegas envisions Jeanty as a cornerstone of their offense. His combination of downhill power and pass-catching ability gives the team options, especially with questions surrounding their offensive identity. In short-yardage spots, he already looks reliable. In open space, his burst creates problems for defenders.
MORE: Terry McLaurin activated, but tension remains in Washington
Preseason results don’t count in the standings, but for Jeanty, they matter. He has already shown why the Raiders invested a top pick in him, and why defenses will have to prepare for him immediately.
Jeanty’s message couldn’t be clearer. He’s here, and he’s ready to play a major role in Las Vegas.
More NFL News:
- Shedeur Sanders breaks viewership records as rookie QB sparks Browns’ win in highly anticipated debut
- Jaguars defense strengthened ahead of NFL season start with former LSU star
- Dolphins lose key offensive piece for 2025 after neck surgery
- Travis Hunter splits roles in eye-catching preseason debut for Jaguars
- Cam Ward's strong start sparks Titans' fans in preseason
- Tom Brady's 17-foot statue towers over Gillette Stadium