Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty saw a surprisingly limited role in the team's victory over the New York Jets on Sunday, carrying the ball just twice for nine yards while teammate Mike Washington Jr. received 25 carries for 83 yards. This stark disparity in workload has raised questions about the team's running back rotation.
Raiders coach Klint Kubiak addressed the situation, taking ownership of the decision and stating it was his call. "Ashton is still going to be a big part of our team. He made a huge catch. He’s gonna be a huge part of our run game moving forward," Kubiak said, pushing back against any suggestion that Jeanty's previous comments about the Jets' tackling ability influenced the reduced carries. "That’s my call," Kubiak reiterated when asked if Jeanty’s remarks played a role. "No."
Despite the limited rushing attempts, Jeanty was still effective in other areas, recording three catches for 64 yards, including a crucial 45-yard reception. However, as a player drafted seventh overall, his primary role is expected to be a workhorse running back.
Jeanty acknowledged that the reduced workload was communicated to him beforehand. "It was communicated that I’d be getting less touches," he said. When pressed on whether his earlier comments contributed to the decision, Jeanty responded, "I don’t know. I couldn’t tell you that." He ultimately focused on the team's success, stating, "It doesn’t matter. We won. Whatever it takes for the team to win, I just want to win."
Kubiak indicated that Washington was given more opportunities for this specific game. "We gave Mike a few more opportunities today," he said. "I think both of those guys will be a huge part of our rushing attack." While Kubiak's statements suggest Jeanty will remain a central figure in the offense, Sunday's game statistics present a different immediate picture. The team's strategy moving forward will be closely watched to see if the carry distribution aligns with Kubiak's assertions.