The Las Vegas Raiders are proceeding with the expectation that running back Ashton Jeanty will be ready for Week 1, despite an ankle injury that has created uncertainty over the past week. Head coach Klint Kubiak stated Friday that the team is "counting on him," though he added that there is "another week to assess how he's gonna look going into this first game."
Jeanty, the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, landed awkwardly on his right leg during practice last Sunday while attempting to catch a pass. Initial fears of a serious knee injury were eased when reports indicated he had suffered a low ankle sprain. However, his availability for the season opener remains unclear.
Jeanty himself posted a Bible verse on social media, Romans 8:28, which offered no specific medical update and left observers to interpret its meaning. The team has not disclosed the severity of the sprain or whether Jeanty has resumed on-field activities.
His absence would significantly alter the Raiders' offensive plans, elevating rookie fourth-round pick Mike Washington into a more prominent role. Washington has reportedly impressed during training camp, but the Raiders would prefer him to complement Jeanty rather than be the primary starter.
The team appears to have moved from initial panic to cautious optimism, with Kubiak's comments suggesting Jeanty is still central to their Week 1 strategy. Nevertheless, the final determination of his status awaits further evaluation in the coming week.