The Las Vegas Raiders are reshaping their roster, aiming to boost their ground game by selecting premier running back Ashton Jeanty, addressing their previous season's rushing deficiencies.
A significant hole exists for the Raiders, who finished last in the league with severely limited rushing yards totaling only 1,357. With a sharp focus on rebuilding, they made a crucial decision during this year's draft, opting to use their No. 6 overall pick to secure Ashton Jeanty, a standout running back from Boise State. This strategic move is not just about filling in gaps but aiming for a potent offensive revival.
Jeanty’s Impressive College Performance
In his final collegiate season, Ashton Jeanty showcased remarkable talent, rushing for an astounding 2,601 yards over 14 games. This staggering average significantly eclipsed the Raiders' cumulative performance from the previous season, positioning Jeanty as a catalyst for transformative change within the Raiders' offensive dynamics.
A Focus on the Future Quarterback
Even with the acquisition of veteran quarterback Geno Smith, who signed a lucrative two-year, $75 million extension, the Raiders may still be eyeing their next franchise quarterback. There’s speculation around the potential selection of Shedeur Sanders in the second round of the NFL Draft. This move could solidify their offensive strategy and provide Smith with a backup plan for the future. At 34 years old, Smith’s tenure may not last indefinitely, positioning Sanders as an ideal choice for the team’s long-term aspirations.
Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Potential
Shedeur Sanders, son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, boasts a record of throwing for a Big 12-leading 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns last season. His impressive statistics might have suggested a higher draft position, but a combination of factors — including his outspoken personality — led to him missing the first round. Despite this setback, experts predict that if drafted in the second round, Sanders could command a contract in the range of $10.4 million to $11.3 million, a significant step up from his college NIL earnings of $6.5 million.
Potential Impact on Raiders' Offense
Acquiring both Ashton Jeanty and Shedeur Sanders can rejuvenate the Raiders' offensive strategy. With Jeanty expected to enhance their rushing game, the team can look to build a more balanced offense, taking some pressure off Smith. Integrating Sanders in the mix would allow Raiders' head coach Pete Carroll to transition smoothly and potentially shift the team's quarterback dynamics in a few years.
What Does the Future Hold for Geno Smith?
While Geno Smith has revived his career and earned his time as a starter in the NFL, his performance remains a prominent focus. Over the years, he has been in the league long enough to know the ups and downs of what leading an NFL team entails. Therefore, drafting Sanders would position the Raiders to mold a new talent while re-evaluating their goals for a playoff-caliber roster.
The Big Picture for the Raiders
Addressing their rushing game with Jeanty is a wise step in response to last year's campaign. By investing in Ashton Jeanty , the Raiders are signaling their commitment to developing a robust offensive line while preparing for a future transition at the quarterback position.
The overall plan seems to align significantly with head coach Carroll’s vision, informed by past successes in the league, observed notably during his time with the Seahawks. Carroll once championed power running backs, and now with Jeanty, he hopes to recreate similar success within the Raiders’ ranks. The potential drafting of Shedeur Sanders could add another layer to this multifaceted approach.
The evolving roster might excite fans as they anticipate the Raiders returning to competitiveness in the league. Whether it’s the ground game revival with Jeanty or a new future star quarterback in Sanders, significant changes are poised to reshape the team's future outlook.
As fans look on in excitement, one thing is clear: the Las Vegas Raiders are making moves to ensure they remain relevant in a rapidly changing NFL landscape.
Expectations are high, and optimism buzzes around Sin City as the Raiders continue to strategize for a brighter and more successful future.