Ashton Jeanty's shrinking role in the Las Vegas Raiders' offense reached a new low in Week 8, when he carried just twice during a 38-33 road victory over the New York Jets. Mike Washington Jr. made his first start ahead of Jeanty this season and played a career-high 38 snaps at MetLife Stadium.
Jeanty contributed more frequently as a receiver, catching three of his four targets. His combined five touches were the fewest of his NFL career, extending a decline in rushing opportunities since the season opener. Against the Miami Dolphins in Week 1, he totaled 29 touches, producing 102 rushing yards, 45 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns.
Raiders coach Klint Kubiak took responsibility for the distribution of playing time after the win. He said the team wanted to give Washington additional opportunities and emphasized that Jeanty would continue to contribute to both the running and passing games. Kubiak also pointed to an important catch by Jeanty during the victory.
The reduced workload comes as Jeanty has struggled to match his rookie rushing efficiency. The former Heisman Trophy finalist, selected sixth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, is averaging 3.1 yards per carry, a drop of 0.6 yards from last season. Although his rushing success rate is nearly unchanged, he is on pace to finish below the five rushing touchdowns he scored as a rookie, despite playing in an offense that is scoring substantially more.
Kubiak said the decision to limit Jeanty's carries was unrelated to the running back's comments about the Jets before the game. During a media session at the Raiders' facility, Jeanty suggested that some unnamed New York players were unwilling tacklers. Former Jets coach Rex Ryan was among those who criticized the remarks. Jeanty said afterward that coaches had told him in advance to expect fewer touches, but he did not know whether his comments had influenced that decision.
Jeanty emphasized the result when discussing his workload with ESPN. "Whatever it takes for the team to win, I just want to win," he said. His changing responsibilities also come amid continued adjustments to offensive leadership. Dating to his freshman season at Boise State, this is his fifth straight year working with a different play caller.
The longer-term division of work remains unsettled. Washington handled early downs against New York, while Jeanty entered on third downs and in passing situations. Kubiak did not commit to keeping that arrangement, saying coaches would review the film. He described the backfield as having "two runners that we believe in."
