Ashton Jeanty’s Struggles in His NFL Preseason Debut
Las Vegas Raiders rookie running back Ashton Jeanty entered the NFL preseason with high expectations, but his debut against the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday unfolded in a way that not many anticipated. Jeanty, who previously enjoyed a standout college career at Boise State, faced a tough outing on the field, finishing with -1 rushing yards on three carries. While he played only two series, his performance—or lack thereof—has proven to be a topic of conversation among fans and analysts alike.
The Contrast: Jeanty vs. Holani
On the other side of the field, George Holani, Jeanty’s former teammate at Boise State, showcased his own talent during the game. Holani, who went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, gained immediate recognition by scoring a 24-yard touchdown at the end of the first quarter and nearing 70 rushing yards in the first half. The comparison between the two players has been stark, with many speculating whether Jeanty still holds the title of "best running back to come out of Boise State."
The Seahawks’ Playful Poke
In an age where social media platforms serve as arenas for light-hearted banter, the Seahawks took the opportunity to poke fun at Jeanty following the game. Their official account cheekily tweeted, “Some people are saying George Holani is the best RB out of Boise State,” a clear nod to the contrasting performances of the two players. While the minor jab was humorous, it also stirred the competitive spirit among fans, drawing attention to the debate over who might ultimately claim the title of the better running back.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The reactions from fans have been mixed. Some rallied behind Jeanty, pointing to his impressive stats from his college career, where he tallied over 2,000 rushing yards during his senior season and emerged as a Heisman candidate. Others, however, seemed to revel in the Seahawks’ trolling and expressed concerns over Jeanty’s preparedness for the NFL stage. As preseason games are often viewed as a platform for rookies to prove themselves, Jeanty’s rocky start may leave fans reconsidering the Raiders’ running back strategy moving forward.
Looking Ahead: Jeanty’s Future with the Raiders
Despite the disappointing debut, it’s important for fans to remember that rookies often face steep learning curves when transitioning from college to the NFL. There’s still plenty of time for Jeanty to adapt and grow as a player. With preseason games remaining, he has the opportunity to refine his skills, establish his running style, and make an impression on coaches and fans alike.
The Bigger Picture in Preseason Performances
Preseason isn’t just about individual performances; it’s a critical time for teams to assess their overall strategies and depth charts. The Raiders and Seahawks, like many teams in the league, are experimenting with line-ups and testing the waters for potential playoff contention. While Jeanty’s performance may have raised eyebrows, it’s crucial to remember that preseason outcomes can be unpredictable and often don’t reflect a player’s true potential.
What’s Next for the Raiders?
As the Raiders move through the preseason schedule, they will have to evaluate their running game more closely. Jeanty’s tough outing may prompt adjustments in training techniques or in-game strategies. How the coaching staff chooses to handle situations like this could have significant implications not only for Jeanty but for the Raiders’ overall offensive approach as they prepare for the regular season ahead.
In the world of the NFL, every player has their ups and downs; the real test lies in how they respond, adapt, and bounce back from challenges like Jeanty’s debut. The spotlight will remain on him as fans anxiously await his next chance to make a mark on the field.