Ashton Jeanty is the newest star of the Las Vegas Raiders. The running back joined the AFC West team as a first-round pick this year, and he’s already set high expectations for himself.
Prior to the 2025 NFL Draft, there were major doubts surrounding the Raiders. After a disastrous 2024 season, Las Vegas was in desperate need of a rebuild—especially on offense.
With the arrival of Geno Smith, the Raiders were not expected to draft a quarterback in the first round. Instead, they used the No. 6 overall pick to select Ashton Jeanty, one of the top running backs to enter the league in recent years.
Ashton Jeanty makes bold prediction for his rookie NFL season
The Raiders are set to look very different in 2025. Following an awful campaign last year, the front office made significant changes in hopes of turning things around.
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One of their biggest issues was the running back position. After choosing not to give Josh Jacobs a contract extension, the team struggled to replace his production.
To address that gap, the Raiders used their first-round pick on Ashton Jeanty. The former Boise State standout was widely regarded as the best running back in this year’s class, and he’s ready to prove it.
When asked about his expectations for his rookie season, Jeanty didn’t hold back. The young star believes he can bring a major spark to Las Vegas with his undeniable talent.
Ashton Jeanty #RB15 of Boise State speaks to the media during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2025.
“I’m hoping for 1,500 rushing [yards] and we’ll say like 10–20 touchdowns,” Jeanty told CBS Sports. For comparison, last year’s starter Alexander Mattison rushed for just 420 yards and four touchdowns. If Jeanty delivers on his promise, it would represent a massive upgrade for the offense.
What is Ashton Jeanty’s contract with the Raiders?
As a top-10 pick, Ashton Jeanty secured a lucrative rookie deal with the Raiders. He signed a four-year, $35.8 million contract that includes a fifth-year team option.
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However, recent history isn’t exactly on his side. The Raiders just moved on from Josh Jacobs—one of the league’s best running backs—after declining to offer him a long-term extension. Jeanty will not only have to perform but also prove he’s worth investing in for the long haul.
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