Ashton Jeanty Injury Update: Raiders Await Diagnosis Amid ACL Concerns

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty has suffered a concerning lower-leg injury during practice, raising questions about his availability ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

Jeanty reportedly landed awkwardly on his right leg while attempting to catch a low pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins during Sunday’s practice session. Trainers helped the running back off the field before he left the session to have the injury assessed.

Sports Doctor Raises Concern Over Ashton Jeanty’s Injury

The nature of Jeanty’s awkward landing quickly sparked concern among fans and analysts. Sports doctor Jeff Mueller reacted to the situation on social media and admitted that the early information did not sound encouraging.

Mueller initially expressed hope that the injury would not prove serious. He later discussed several possibilities based on the mechanism of the injury, including a hyperextension or MCL issue.

However, the doctor also warned that injuries involving an awkward landing can sometimes involve more significant problems, including an ACL injury or fracture.

At this stage, there has been no confirmed diagnosis publicly establishing that Jeanty suffered an ACL injury or fracture. Further medical evaluation will be required before the severity of the injury is known.

Raiders Yet to Provide a Definitive Injury Update

Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has not yet provided a definitive update on Jeanty’s condition. The team is expected to share more information after the running back undergoes further evaluation.

Kubiak is scheduled to speak with reporters on Tuesday, when he could provide additional details about Jeanty’s status and potential recovery timeline.

Ashton Jeanty’s Importance to the Raiders

Jeanty is an important part of the Raiders’ plans after being selected with the No. 6 overall pick in the previous NFL Draft. During his rookie season, he rushed for 975 yards and scored five rushing touchdowns.

His rookie campaign came during a difficult season for Las Vegas, with the Raiders finishing 3-14 and last in the AFC West. Entering 2026, Jeanty was expected to play a major role in the team’s offensive plans.

Jeanty Has Seen Limited Preseason Action

The running back has had limited involvement during the Raiders’ preseason schedule. He carried the ball three times for 16 yards during Las Vegas’ 27-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

Jeanty did not play in the Raiders’ 22-20 preseason victory over the Houston Texans on Thursday, making Sunday’s practice injury another development to monitor closely.

Who Could Replace Ashton Jeanty?

If Jeanty is forced to miss significant time, the Raiders have several alternatives on their running back depth chart.

Rookie Mike Washington Jr. could receive an increased workload. Las Vegas selected Washington with the No. 122 pick in this year’s NFL Draft.

Washington began his college career at Buffalo before transferring to New Mexico State and later Arkansas. Across 55 collegiate games over five seasons, he recorded 2,914 rushing yards and 26 rushing touchdowns.

The Raiders also have Dylan Laube, Dare Ogunbowale and Roman Hemby available as potential options in the backfield.

Raiders Await More Information on Jeanty

For now, the Raiders and their fans will have to wait for a confirmed medical diagnosis. While the injury has generated concern because of the way Jeanty landed, there is currently no official confirmation that he suffered an ACL injury or fracture.

The upcoming medical assessment and Kubiak’s next media availability should provide a clearer picture of Jeanty’s condition and whether he will be available when the 2026 NFL season begins.