Story by
Everything Points to Ashton Jeanty Playing in Week 1, Except Practice
- Story by
- Everything Points to Ashton Jeanty Playing in Week 1, Except Practice
The Raiders are planning for Ashton Jeanty to play in Week 1. The general manager and the head coach expect it, even if Jeanty isn't practicing.
Head coach Klint Kubiak was asked if he was optimistic about Jeanty's chances to play in the season opener. Kubiak gave a one-word answer: "Yes."
Advertisement
John Spytek, the general manager, had a bit more to say than Kubiak.
"I think he's in a good spot. We see him every day. He's working really hard. He's on the mend," Spytek said of Jeanty. "I expect him to be back as quick as he can. Maybe quicker than some people would expect. When that is we'll see."
The Raiders still haven't given an official timeline for Jeanty's return. But Las Vegas only has three running backs on the 53-man roster, a sign that Jeanty will be ready in Week 1. If he's not back, Las Vegas would have to promote Dare Ogunbowale or Roman Hemby from the practice squad.
Advertisement
Jeanty's Practice Status
Las Vegas Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty (2).Candice Ward-Imagn Images
One area that is pointing to pessimism for Jeanty's return is his practice status. Jeanty didn't participate in practice on Tuesday or Wednesday. He did work off to the side on Tuesday though.
However, so did wide receiver Dont'e Thornton, who is on injured reserve and will miss the first four games of the season.
Jeanty hasn't practiced since hurting his ankle on Aug. 23. The Raiders still have time before the season begins on Sept. 13. But Jeanty will need to return to practice in some capacity before jumping back into game action.
Advertisement
The Raiders won't have to put an official designation on Jeanty until next week when injury reports become official. Until then, Kubiak's short quotes will be the extent of updates on Jeanty's status.
Jeanty's Role
When Jeanty does return, the Raiders have every reason to be cautious with their 22-year-old back.
Las Vegas is not expecting to win in 2026. Using Jeanty at less than 100 percent in a lost season would be foolish.
Plus the Raiders may have found an excellent backup in Mike Washington. The Raiders used a fourth-round pick on Washington after Kubiak advocated for him on draft day. So far Washington has delivered for his head coach.
Advertisement
Washington ran for 168 yards across three preseason games. Even though it was primarily against opposing backup defenses, he was the most impressive offensive player in preseason games.
If Washington can make an impact, he should take some of the load off Jeanty early in the season.
Las Vegas Raiders Essentials
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
