Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll has broken his silence regarding the noticeable absence of rookie running back Ashton Jeanty from first-team reps during the team’s offseason program. The absence of the promising rookie from prominent roles has raised eyebrows among analysts and fans, particularly given the expectations surrounding Jeanty following his selection in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Speaking to reporters after mandatory minicamp this week, Carroll provided clarity on the team’s strategic approach to Jeanty’s early development.
Carroll’s Explanation
“We love Ashton’s talent, no question about it,” Carroll stated. “But there’s a process here. Right now, we’re focused on getting him comfortable with our protections, our schemes, and what we’re asking of the running backs in both phases — running and receiving. He’s a smart kid, but we don’t hand out first-team reps until guys have fully earned them.”
According to Carroll, the decision is less about Jeanty’s performance and more about adhering to the Raiders’ developmental philosophy, particularly with young offensive skill players. With the veteran presence of Zamir White and Alexander Mattison handling the majority of first-team duties, Jeanty has primarily worked with the second and third units to acclimate to the speed and complexity of the pro level.
The Competition at Running Back
While Jeanty flashed dynamic ability at Boise State, amassing 1,347 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in his final collegiate season, the Raiders’ backfield is currently in the hands of more seasoned professionals. Zamir White, who emerged as a reliable option after the departure of Josh Jacobs, has taken command of the RB1 role, while Mattison brings experience as a rotational back.
Carroll emphasized that the depth chart in June does not reflect what it will look like when the season begins:
“This is a marathon, not a sprint. Ashton’s going to have every opportunity to compete. But it’s going to be on him to push his way up.”
Jeanty’s Development Focus
One of the primary factors keeping Jeanty with the lower units is his work in pass protection, an area that remains a major hurdle for many rookie backs entering the NFL. The coaching staff has reportedly been impressed with his running instincts and receiving skills but is requiring Jeanty to demonstrate consistency in protecting the quarterback before elevating him to first-team status.
“He’s explosive with the ball in his hands,” Carroll added. “We see that every day. But for us, the job isn’t just carrying it — it’s keeping the quarterback upright on third down, making the right reads, understanding blitz pickups. That’s where we need to see continued growth.”
Ending Summary: Patience Over Panic
While some Raider fans have voiced concern about Jeanty’s slow introduction into the first-team offense, Carroll’s explanation offers important perspective. The Raiders are not burying their promising rookie — they are developing him deliberately, with an eye toward long-term success rather than short-term flashes.
As training camp approaches in late July, expect Jeanty to receive increased opportunities as he absorbs the playbook and adjusts to NFL defensive speed. For now, Carroll and his staff are choosing patience over panic, trusting that the rookie’s talent will eventually demand a bigger role.
If Jeanty delivers on his potential, this slow, methodical approach could pay dividends for Las Vegas later in the 2025 season — particularly as the Raiders aim to build a sustainable and balanced offensive attack.
