When the Las Vegas Raiders selected Ashton Jeanty with the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, expectations were sky-high. Now, as we look ahead to the 2026 season, the big question on every fan's mind is whether the dynamic running back will finally crack the 1,000-yard rushing mark.
Spoiler alert: the odds are very much in his favor. Jeanty came within striking distance during his rookie campaign, racking up an impressive 975 yards on the ground. That means he needs just 25 more yards—a mere seven carries at his current average—to hit the milestone. For a player of his caliber, that's hardly a steep climb.
The real story here is how the Raiders are building around their young star. The addition of veteran center Tyler Linderbaum is a game-changer for the run game. Known for his ability to create massive holes up the middle, Linderbaum will give Jeanty cleaner lanes to exploit. Expect that 3.66 yards-per-carry average to rise significantly in 2026.
But it's not just about Jeanty. The Raiders have smartly added rookie Mike Washington Jr. as a complementary back. At 6-foot-1, Washington brings a different physical presence to the backfield, allowing the coaching staff to spell Jeanty without losing any punch in the ground game. After carrying the ball 266 times as a rookie, Jeanty will benefit from a more balanced workload.
The passing game is also getting a major upgrade. With the addition of wide receiver Jalen Nailor in free agency and rookie Malik Benson (drafted 195th overall), the Raiders' aerial attack should keep defenses honest. Whether it's Fernando Mendoza or Kirk Cousins under center, the threat of a productive passing game will prevent teams from stacking the box against Jeanty.
All signs point to a breakout sophomore season for the 22-year-old back. With an improved offensive line, a more varied offensive attack, and a lighter workload, Jeanty is primed to not only reach 1,000 yards but potentially blow past it. For Raiders fans, 2026 is shaping up to be the year their first-round investment truly pays off.