When the Las Vegas Raiders selected Ashton Jeanty with the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, they weren’t just investing in a running back—they were placing their faith in a player whose journey has been anything but ordinary. Jeanty’s rise from a U.S. military base in Italy to Heisman Trophy finalist and now a key offensive weapon for the Raiders has captivated fans and experts alike. Now, the question is no longer whether Jeanty has the potential—but how quickly he can deliver on it.
Before college scouts knew his name, Jeanty was already a legend at Naples Middle/High School in Italy, a Department of Defense school for children of U.S. military personnel. At just 14, he broke tradition as the first freshman ever to start on offense under head coach Jim Davis. Jeanty’s athleticism turned heads early. Despite his young age, he overpowered older players and quickly became the team’s focal point. His debut season saw him rack up over 1,200 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns in just six games. He wasn’t just good—he was dominant.
Returning to the U.S. for high school, Jeanty transferred to Lone Star High in Frisco, Texas, where he immediately stood out despite sharing the field with future NFL talent like wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. Initially playing on defense, he gradually transitioned into an all-purpose offensive threat. As a senior, Jeanty exploded. He rushed for 1,835 yards, tallied over 2,600 all-purpose yards, and scored 41 touchdowns. Despite these numbers, major college programs largely overlooked him—something local coaches still struggle to understand.
Jeanty ultimately committed to Boise State, one of the few FBS schools that believed in his potential. There, he rewrote expectations. By his final season, Jeanty was not only one of the most prolific runners in college football, but a Heisman finalist. His 2,601 rushing yards in 2024 were second only to Barry Sanders’ legendary 1988 campaign. He averaged over 185 yards per game, posted six 200-yard performances, and scored 29 touchdowns. His impact helped propel Boise State to a College Football Playoff berth, where they faced Penn State in the quarterfinals.
Though Penn State defeated Boise State 31–14, their coaching staff walked away deeply impressed. Defensive coordinator Tom Allen, now at Clemson, likened Jeanty’s power and frame to former LSU standout Leonard Fournette. Despite intense defensive focus, Jeanty still managed 104 hard-fought yards on 30 carries—showing NFL scouts his grit against elite competition.
Las Vegas’ decision to draft Jeanty so high was both a nod to his production and a commitment to rebuilding their run game. The Raiders posted the NFL’s worst rushing average in 2024, and new head coach Pete Carroll made it clear: the ground game is the foundation of the offense. Jeanty fits Carroll’s vision perfectly. Some even believe he’s the Raiders’ version of Marshawn Lynch—tough, explosive, and hard to bring down.
Since rookie minicamp, Jeanty has taken the bulk of reps with the first-team offense. With Geno Smith at quarterback and playmakers like Jakobi Meyers and rookie tight end Brock Bowers, the Raiders expect Jeanty to be their engine on offense. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, known for his creative schemes, has already seen what Jeanty can do against top-tier opponents. His performances against Oregon and Penn State serve as proof that he can succeed in the pros.
Those who’ve known Jeanty since his teenage years aren’t surprised by the buzz. Coach Davis, who coached him back in Italy, recalls how Jeanty carried the team with maturity and strength beyond his years. Christian Albright, a former teammate from Naples, still remembers Jeanty throwing him his first-ever touchdown pass—a moment that speaks to Jeanty’s versatility and selflessness. Now, Jeanty faces a similar situation in the NFL: carrying a team with big aspirations on his back.
In a league where rookie running backs rarely get handed the keys to an offense, Jeanty’s role with the Raiders is unique. But it’s one he’s prepared for. “Everything about him—from his work ethic to his instincts—is what you want in a lead back,” said Raiders center Jackson Powers-Johnson. “He’s already a pro.” Jeanty’s journey from a volcano-crater stadium in Italy to NFL stardom is a testament to talent, resilience, and readiness. Now, all eyes are on him to see whether he can spark a Raiders renaissance. And if his past is any indication, he won’t just meet the hype—he’ll exceed it.
