The Las Vegas Raiders made a bold move in this year's draft by selecting running back Ashton Jeanty as the sixth overall pick. The decision reflects the team's confidence in Jeanty's potential to contribute significantly to their offense. However, the Raiders' coaching staff has identified a specific area for improvement that could enhance Jeanty's performance on the field.
During his time at Boise State, Jeanty developed a distinctive way of waiting for snaps. He would stand upright in the backfield with his hands at his sides, a posture that some observers humorously compared to the infamous character Michael Myers from the Halloween movies. This unconventional stance has raised questions about its effectiveness in the fast-paced environment of the NFL.
In a recent interview with Kay Adams at the NFLPA Rookie Premiere event, Jeanty discussed the crucial conversation he had with offensive coordinator Chip Kelly regarding his playing stance. Kelly emphasized the importance of adopting a lower position to enhance performance and agility during gameplay. Jeanty recounted the exchange, stating, “You know, sometimes you’ve got to go with the flow.”
Jeanty shared a memorable moment from rookie mini-camp when Kelly approached him with a question about his background in basketball. “He was like, ‘Have you ever played basketball?’ Yeah, I’ve played basketball. I can dunk, all that,” Jeanty recalled. Kelly then challenged him to demonstrate his defensive stance, explaining, “That’s exactly why you’ve got to be down in your running back stance.” This playful yet insightful interaction underscored the need for Jeanty to adapt his posture to meet the demands of the NFL.
While Jeanty recognizes the necessity of making adjustments, he remains optimistic about his ability to persuade Kelly about his original stance once he establishes himself in the league. “He won for now. I’m going to try and persuade him one day. I’ve got to earn my stripes, make some plays first. But I don’t think it’s going to be the end,” he expressed. This determination signals Jeanty’s commitment to not only adapt but also excel as he transitions from college football to the professional arena.
Jeanty’s success in the NFL will hinge on more than just adjusting his stance; it will require a comprehensive understanding of the game, effective communication with coaches, and the ability to make impactful plays. As he embarks on this journey with the Raiders, fans eagerly anticipate how Jeanty will apply his skills and adapt to the challenges of the NFL.
