Former New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan launched a scathing critique of Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty, labeling him "soft as Charmin" and "the worst draft pick [at running back] in the last 20 years." Ryan's comments came on Sunday's ESPN pregame show after Jeanty had spoken about the Raiders' potential success against the Jets defense.
Jeanty, a second-year player out of Boise State, had indicated before Sunday's game that the Jets defense had players who "don't really want to tackle." Ryan, now an analyst for ESPN, took exception to this, directly addressing Jeanty on air. "We are not gonna try to take you out of the game. Why? Because you are horrible," Ryan stated. "You're about the worst draft pick in the last 20 years, I think, as a running back. You stink."
Ryan further criticized Jeanty's performance, noting his 3.1 yards per carry average entering Sunday's game. "Guess what? Today, you get your ass kicked. It's on you, my friend," Ryan added.
Jeanty has faced criticism for his performance since entering the league. As a rookie, he averaged 3.7 yards per carry, and in his second season under head coach Klint Kubiak, his average dipped to 3.1 yards per carry. He had also scored only one rushing touchdown in the first seven games of the season.
The commentary occurred amidst a backdrop of struggles for the Jets, who were coming off a demoralizing loss to the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins secured their first win of the season against the Jets, despite a late comeback attempt by New York. The Jets' defense, in particular, faced scrutiny for allowing the Dolphins to gain significant yardage on the ground and for critical lapses, including allowing a touchdown with six seconds left in the first half.