Key Highlights
- Raiders selected running back Ashton Jeanty with the sixth pick in the 2025 NFL draft.
- Jeanty played high school football in Italy and Texas, and starred for Boise State University.
- In his rookie season so far, Jeanty has shown both impressive highs and humbling lows.
- The running back’s performance has been evaluated with a grade of C+ by Mike Kadlick.
A Promising Draft Pick
The Las Vegas Raiders made a splash in the 2025 NFL draft when they selected running back Ashton Jeanty with the sixth overall pick. Born to a naval officer, Jeanty’s journey began in Italy and continued in Texas, where he excelled at Lone Star High School before committing to Boise State University.
At Boise State, Jeanty dominated collegiate football over three seasons from 2022 to ’24, racking up an impressive 5,600 total yards and 56 touchdowns. His senior year was particularly noteworthy, as he led the NCAA in both rushing yards (2,601) and attempts (374), averaging seven yards per carry while finding the end zone 30 times. Jeanty’s Heisman Trophy campaign ultimately fell short of victory, but his performances earned him a place among the finalists.
Rookie Season So Far: A Mixed Bag
Jeanty’s transition to professional football has been marked by both success and challenges. In Week 4 against the Bears, he shined with 155 total yards and three touchdowns. However, his debut game was less impressive, averaging a mere two yards per carry in his NFL debut against the Patriots—a stark contrast from his college efficiency.
Through eight games, Jeanty has accumulated 487 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 124 carries (3.9 YPC), with an additional 133 receiving yards and three scores on 20 receptions. On the surface, these numbers might be considered modest compared to his college statistics.
However, a deeper look at advanced stats reveals that Jeanty ranks second in broken tackles (16) and seventh in yards after contact (321), showcasing flashes of potential that the Raiders may have envisioned when they drafted him.
Evaluation: A C+ Report Card
Mike Kadlick, a contributor to Sports Illustrated, evaluates Jeanty’s rookie season so far with a grade of C+. This grade reflects his performance as “just above fine,” acknowledging that he shows potential but is still in the process of developing into an All-Pro-level player.
The evaluation suggests that while there have been highs and lows, Jeanty’s performance aligns with expectations for a 21-year-old in the NFL. As the season progresses, fans and analysts will continue to monitor his development closely, hoping to see the player who impressed college football scouts shine on the professional stage.
As the Raiders navigate their rookie season and beyond, Ashton Jeanty’s journey as a new member of the team remains an intriguing story of potential and growth in the NFL.
