Ashton Jeanty Injury Update: What Happened to His Knee and Which Raiders Backup RB Takes Over?

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty left Sunday's training camp practice after suffering an apparent right knee injury, raising immediate concerns about the status of one of the team's most important offensive players heading into his second NFL season.

Jeanty was unable to put pressure on his right leg as he was helped from the field by athletic trainers, while the Raiders did not immediately provide details about the severity of the injury.

What Happened to Jeanty's Knee?

Jeanty's injury occurred during the team period of practice when the running back ran a route and attempted to catch a low pass from veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Jeanty dove for the football but landed awkwardly on the turf inside the Raiders' practice facility. He remained on the ground before athletic trainers helped him leave the field.

Jeanty appeared unable to put weight on his right leg as he was escorted away from the practice area. His teammates subsequently took a knee and said a prayer after the second-year running back exited.

There was no immediate diagnosis or recovery timeline announced by the Raiders, meaning the extent of Jeanty's knee injury remained unclear.

Mike Washington Jr. Takes Over First-Team Reps

The Raiders quickly turned to Raiders' backup RB Mike Washington Jr. after Jeanty's departure. Washington handled the remaining first-team running back reps for the rest of Sunday's practice.

Washington had already been alternating starting reps with Jeanty during training camp and has impressed during the team's preparations for the new season. His increased workload could become significant if Jeanty is forced to miss additional practices or games.

The Raiders also have Dylan Laube, undrafted rookie Roman Hemby and veteran Dare Ogunbowale available in their running back group.

Why Jeanty's Injury Matters to the Raiders

Jeanty was selected sixth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft and entered his second season as a key part of the Raiders' offensive plans.

As a rookie, he started all 17 games and rushed for 975 yards and five touchdowns on 266 carries. He also contributed heavily as a receiver, recording 55 catches for 346 yards and five receiving touchdowns.

His expected role was particularly important under first-time head coach Klint Kubiak, whose offence is expected to rely heavily on the running game. An extended absence for Jeanty would therefore affect both the Raiders' depth chart and their plans for the offensive backfield.

What Happens Next for Ashton Jeanty?

The Raiders' next updates will determine the seriousness of Jeanty's injury and whether he can return to training camp soon. For now, the team has not announced a diagnosis or timetable for his recovery.

Jeanty did appear in the Raiders' preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, but he and other projected starters did not play in Thursday's preseason victory over the Houston Texans.

Until the Raiders provide further medical information, Washington is the clearest candidate to handle increased first-team work at running back. The situation will also give the team's other running backs an opportunity to take on larger roles if Jeanty is unavailable.