Boise State running back prospect Ashton Jeanty is a safe bet to be taken in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft — possibly within the top 10 picks. But Jeanty’s path to becoming one of the top prospects in the class was anything but typical. The son of a U.S. serviceman, Jeanty was scoring touchdowns across Europe before he ever broke out stateside.
Ashton Jeanty’s Nomadic Childhood
Born on Dec. 2, 2003, Jeanty is the son of Harry Jeanty and Pamela Altieri-Jeanty. Though he was born in Jacksonville, he also lived in Georgia and Virginia before even starting high school.
Those moves were nothing compared to the one his family made to Gricignano di Aversa, a rural town outside Naples, Italy when he was 12. While his father served overseas, Jeanty attended Naples Middle/High School — a Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school. His European football journey took him to Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, and beyond, where he competed against other DoDEA schools.
After returning to the U.S., Jeanty enrolled at Lone Star High School in Frisco, Texas. He exploded during his senior season with 1,843 rushing yards and 41 total touchdowns, earning a scholarship to Boise State.
Who Are Jeanty’s Parents?
Jeanty’s father, Harry, is a retired U.S. Navy chief petty officer. He graduated from Deerfield Beach High School and later attended Columbia College. While at Columbia, he married Jeanty’s mother, Pamela.
Pamela has been a steady presence in Ashton’s life, often offering him guidance and encouragement throughout his journey.
Raised in a Christian household, Jeanty spoke about his faith in a 2024 video with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes:
“I like to say that I’m a Christian cleverly disguised as an All-American running back.
I’ve learned that God has blessed me with amazing talents. I’ve just been able to do a lot of great things with it, but at the same time, not losing yourself in it and understanding that my identity is in Christ.”
Does Jeanty Have Any Siblings?
Yes, Jeanty has two sisters, Alyssa and Ariana, and an older brother, Amir.
None of the Jeanty siblings spoke Italian during their time overseas, so they leaned on each other to adjust. Amir once said Ashton’s football instincts may have come in part from his love of basketball.
Jeanty’s competitive fire and drive to get better have helped him become one of the most exciting running back prospects in years. From Jacksonville to Naples, to Frisco, and then Boise, he’s taken the long road — and it’s led him right where he wants to be.
