Ashton Jeanty’s injury initially looked like the kind that can change a season before it begins. Five days later, the Las Vegas Raiders are talking about their star running back in much more encouraging terms.
Jeanty injured his right ankle during Sunday’s practice after diving for a pass and landing awkwardly. He could not put weight on the leg as trainers helped him off, while teammates gathered nearby.
NFL Network later reported that Jeanty suffered an ankle sprain that is considered “more low than high” and not a major long-term injury.
What Happened to Ashton Jeanty?
The scary scene came late in an 11-on-11 period. Jeanty stayed down after the awkward landing and needed assistance leaving the field, creating immediate concern that Las Vegas might have lost one of the centerpieces of its offense.
The first substantial update brought relief. The injury is believed to be an ankle sprain rather than the more serious damage initially feared, although the Raiders have not announced a specific medical timetable.
Head coach Klint Kubiak offered another update Friday after Las Vegas finished its preseason schedule.
“Still on the mend,” Kubiak said. “Still working to get him back. We’ve got another week to assess how he’s going to look going into this first game. But we’re counting on him.”
That wording is important. Kubiak did not guarantee Jeanty will play in Week 1, but the Raiders are preparing as though a return remains realistic.
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How Long Will Ashton Jeanty Be Out, and Will He Play Week 1?
There is still no confirmed return date. Jeanty missed Thursday’s preseason finale against the San Francisco 49ers, and Las Vegas now has more than two weeks before hosting the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 13.
That recovery window gives Jeanty time, but his participation in practice during Week 1 preparation should provide a clearer indicator of his availability. The Raiders will not be required to issue their first official regular-season injury report until the week of the opener.
If Jeanty cannot go, rookie Mike Washington Jr. has positioned himself for a significant role. Washington rushed eight times for 49 yards with the first-team offense Thursday and finished the preseason with 168 yards on 23 carries, an average of 7.3 yards per attempt.
Jeanty remains the focal point. The No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft produced 1,321 scrimmage yards and 10 total touchdowns as a rookie, although his 66.1 PFN RB Impact grade reflected how difficult his first season became behind an inconsistent offense.
The outlook has changed considerably since Sunday. Jeanty has not been cleared for Week 1, but a long-term absence no longer appears to be the expectation.
For now, Las Vegas is counting on its lead back while leaving itself enough room to see how the ankle responds.
