Ashton Jeanty’s injury scare turns to total optimism ahead of Dolphins opener
Ashton Jeanty’s injury raised concerns in Las Vegas, but the Raiders expect their star running back back sooner than expected.
The Las Vegas Raiders enter the 2026 season with one clear mission: to rise again after a disappointing 2025 campaign in which they hit rock bottom with the worst record in the NFL. To dramatically change the direction of the franchise, the front office hired Klint Kubiak as the new head coach and completely revamped its quarterback room with the signing of Kirk Cousins and the arrival of Fernando Mendoza , the No. 1 overall pick in the Draft.
Ashton Jeanty raises concerns, but the Raiders remain calm
Despite the major structural changes, Las Vegas’ success in a brutal AFC West will largely depend on whether its young stars can reach their full potential. Running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers enter the season carrying high expectations after a 2025 campaign filled with mixed emotions, establishing themselves as the cornerstones of the team’s new offensive project.
However, Jeanty’s second season got off to a difficult start. The star running back suffered a sprained ankle during training camp, raising concerns about the severity of the injury. Despite the scare, his medical progress has been positive, and the outlook points toward a quicker-than-expected return during the regular season.
Raiders general manager John Spytek eased concerns by saying the organization is confident it will get its running back back on the field soon, leaving the door open for an early return.
“I expect him to be back as quick he can, maybe quicker than some people would expect. When that is, we'll see.”
Although Jeanty has remained sidelined from practices since August 23 , his rehabilitation progress in recent days has been notable. With the season opener set for September 13 against the Miami Dolphins , the running back faces a race against the clock with less than two weeks to try to be ready for Week 1 .
If he is not medically cleared, rookie Mike Washington Jr . emerges as the top option to carry the load in the running game. Washington impressed during the preseason and summer practices, earning the confidence of Kubiak’s coaching staff.
Still, the Raiders invested a Top 10 selection in the 2025 Draft for one undeniable reason: Jeanty’s game-changing ability. Las Vegas is hoping for the quick return of its star to help put one of the darkest seasons in recent franchise history behind them.
