The Las Vegas Raiders hit a new low point in their disastrous season, now sitting at 2-9 following Sunday’s noncompetitive loss to the Cleveland Browns. Ashton Jeanty exited the contest late with an ankle injury. Will fantasy football managers have the rookie running back available this week?
Ashton Jeanty Injury Update
The problem surfaced during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s defeat to the Browns when a defender dove into Jeanty’s legs, twisting Jeanty’s ankle. It remains unclear whether Jeanty could have returned given how late the injury occurred in the game. Despite the setback, he still posted an impressive performance with 108 yards and one touchdown on 25 touches before departing.​
On Monday, head coach Pete Carroll addressed the injury during his media availability. According to Field Yates, when asked whether the ankle issue would limit Jeanty in practice this week, Carroll offered cautiously optimistic comments. “I haven’t heard that it would yet,” Carroll said. “It sounds like there’s a chance that he’ll be ok”.​
Carroll has a notorious reputation for being unreliable when discussing injuries, making his words difficult to interpret. The fact that Carroll hasn’t heard anything about Jeanty even being limited at practice suggests the rookie avoided anything that would prevent him from playing. However, saying “there’s a chance that he’ll be ok” carries an unmistakable negative connotation.​
Ultimately, fantasy managers will need to wait until Las Vegas practices on Wednesday to gain clarity. If Jeanty appears on the field in any capacity, it would signal strong odds for his availability. If he sits out practice entirely, chances are he won’t suit up Sunday.​
Jeanty’s Fantasy Outlook
Jeanty hasn’t lived up to draft expectations this season through no fault of his own. The Raiders offense and offensive line have been abysmal, ranking among the league’s worst units. The offensive performance deteriorated to such an extent that Las Vegas fired offensive coordinator Chip Kelly on Sunday night, just 11 games into his first season with the organization.​
The timing of Kelly’s dismissal speaks volumes about how poorly the offense has functioned. Despite making Kelly the highest-paid offensive coordinator in the league during the offseason, the Raiders couldn’t tolerate the continued futility. Quarterbacks coach Greg Olson takes over as interim offensive coordinator.​
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The remaining schedule presents significant challenges, with difficult matchups ahead for the 2-9 Raiders. However, there’s reason for cautious optimism given the offensive coordinator change combined with Jeanty’s expanding role in the passing game. He’s been more involved as a receiver in recent weeks, adding another dimension to his fantasy value.​
It would be shocking if this ankle injury costs Jeanty an extended absence given the initial reports. However, if he did miss a game or two, Raheem Mostert would assume lead back responsibilities. The veteran would handle the bulk of carries in Jeanty’s absence, though the offensive limitations would cap his upside significantly.​
