Ashton Jeanty was everybody's top breakout pick for 2026 the moment Klint Kubiak took over as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. Kubiak's offensive scheme had just helped the Seahawks win a Super Bowl, and now he inherits a former Heisman finalist and No. 6 overall pick. But Jeanty went down with a right ankle sprain in practice late in the preseason and had to be helped off the field.
He's now missed over two weeks of practice, leaving fans worried about his status for Week 1. The Raiders got some good news this week, though, with Kubiak telling reporters that Jeanty's expected to return to practice on Wednesday. It's still unclear exactly how much he'll practice, or whether he intends to play in Sunday's season opener against the Dolphins.
But this is at least a step in the right direction. More news: Patrick Mahomes’ Week 1 Return Raises ‘Significant Concerns’ for Ex-NFL QB More news: Puka Nacua Gets Major Suspension Update Ahead of Rams Season Opener Kubiak made it clear earlier in the offseason that he intends to make Jeanty the Raiders' workhorse back, leaning toward a workload similar to what the 49ers give Christian McCaffrey. McCaffrey led the entire league with 413 total touches last season.
There's no guarantee Jeanty gets that many touches, but given the team's investment in him — and the offensive line built around him — that was the hope. The recent injury has put that plan on hold, though, and opened the door for fourth-round rookie Mike Washington Jr., who ran a blazing 4.33 at the NFL Combine and impressed throughout the preseason. Given how heavily Kubiak seemingly intends to use Jeanty, the Raiders may decide it's best to let him fully rest before rushing him back, letting Washington handle the bulk of the carries in the meantime.
Still, nothing is confirmed at this point, and there's a real chance Jeanty suits up Sunday. His return to practice at least points toward him being back soon — whether that's this week or next. More news: Browns Fans Fuming Over Todd Monken’s Latest Deshaun Watson Announcement
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