Ashton Jeanty drops cold response as Raiders star dismissed injury panic before Week 1
After weeks of uncertainty, Ashton Jeanty looks set to suit up for the Raiders' season opener against Miami.
A lot of the Las Vegas Raiders ' success in 2026 could hinge on their running game, and after weeks of uncertainty surrounding Ashton Jeanty 's health, the outlook is finally encouraging. The young running back appears set to make his Week 1 debut against the Miami Dolphins , having recovered from the ankle injury that raised concerns during training camp.
Jeanty returned to practice on Wednesday as a full participant , a major step forward after missing the remainder of training camp and the team's preseason finale. Raiders reporter Levi Edwards asked him if there was any concern about missing the season opener, and the running back answered with just one word:
Jeanty suffered the injury on August 23 during an 11-on-11 drill , when he dove to catch a low pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins and landed awkwardly. The impact was severe enough that trainers had to help him off the field after he was unable to put weight on his right leg.
Medical evaluations later revealed that the 22-year-old had sustained a mild ankle sprain , an injury that was never expected to sideline him long term. Even so, the Raiders took a cautious approach with his recovery to ensure he would be ready for the start of the regular season.
His removal from the injury report and full participation in practice mark the clearest sign yet that he is ready to return. His availability is even more significant because Las Vegas will be without star tight end Brock Bowers in the season opener.
The former Boise State standout enters his second NFL season after being selected with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft . As a rookie, he played in all 17 games , rushing for 975 yards and five touchdowns on 266 carries . He also added 55 receptions for 346 yards and five more scores , finishing with 1,321 yards from scrimmage and 10 total touchdowns .
With Jeanty back to full participation, the Raiders head into Sunday's showdown with the Dolphins confident that one of their most important offensive weapons will be available from the opening snap.
