There is no question about his talent though
With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, the Las Vegas Raiders find themselves at the heart of a heated discussion surrounding their potential first-round pick. Linked closely to Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, the Raiders face a pivotal decision that could define their draft and their future.
Jeanty, who etched his name into college football history by rushing for over 2,600 yards last season, a feat only Hall of Famer Barry Sanders has accomplished, has captivated NFL scouts with his unique blend of speed, agility, and vision. Many consider him a generational talent, capable of transforming an offense. For a Raiders team that struggled to produce on the ground last season, ranking last in rushing yards and yards per attempt, Jeanty could be the immediate fix to a glaring issue
But the prospect of drafting Jeanty with the sixth overall pick has sparked debate among analysts and fans alike. While his talents are undeniable, critics question the value of selecting a running back so high, especially given the current state of the Raiders’ roster.
Ashton Jeanty is creating a lot of Buzz to the Raiders at 6 👀 pic.twitter.com/8oMVrtNRNj
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) March 13, 2025
Worth the gamble or just to good to pass on
The Athletic’s Austin Mock raised concerns about using a top-10 pick on a running back, arguing that the position has a shorter career span and is considered less valuable in the modern NFL. Mock compared Jeanty’s situation to that of Saquon Barkley, who, despite his immense talent, faced challenges as the New York Giants struggled to build a competitive roster around him after drafting him second overall in 2018.
The Raiders are in a precarious position. While they have a clear need at running back, they also have pressing gaps at other positions, such as cornerback and offensive line, which could be addressed in the first round. Additionally, the depth of this year’s running back class presents an opportunity to find quality talent in the later rounds, making some wonder if selecting Jeanty at No. 6 would be a luxury pick the Raiders cannot afford.
At the same time, the Raiders’ new leadership duo of head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek might see Jeanty as the type of game-changing player who can immediately energize the team and its fanbase. With Carroll’s history of success with dominant running games, Jeanty could fit perfectly into a revamped Raiders offense.
As the clock ticks down to draft day, the Raiders’ decision looms large. Whether they opt for Jeanty or choose to address other roster needs, their choice will undoubtedly shape their trajectory, and spark discussions about the value of running backs in today’s NFL. For Raider Nation, all eyes are on the sixth pick and the hope that it leads to brighter days ahead.