Las Vegas Raiders offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak addressed the reduced workload of rookie running back Ashton Jeanty following the team's win over the New York Jets on Sunday.
Jeanty, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, carried the ball only twice for 9 yards and played just 39.7% of offensive snaps, a season low. Backup Mike Washington Jr., a fourth-round rookie, received a season-high 25 carries and a 60.3% snap share.
Kubiak's explanation
Kubiak told reporters on Monday that the team needs all three running backs — Jeanty, Washington, and Dylan Laube — for success in both the run and pass game. He praised Jeanty's pass-catching and protection, noting Jeanty caught three of four targets for 64 yards. However, Jeanty's rushing average of 3.1 yards per carry contrasts with Washington's 4.3 yards per carry.
Context and upcoming schedule
Jeanty's workload reduction came after he criticized the Jets' defense before the game. The Raiders won behind Kirk Cousins' passing offense, rushing for just 2.9 yards per carry on 33 attempts. Las Vegas faces a tough stretch with games against the San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Denver Broncos.
