The Las Vegas Raiders could have themselves quite the dangerous duo but not the one you imagine—we’re talking about Jackson Powers-Johnson and a certain rookie.
Look, you can have all the shiny toys you want, but unless there’s a consistent run game, it won’t matter. No offense to Brock Bowers, Jakobi Meyers, or Jack Bech; the Raiders can’t afford to be one-dimensional. Luckily for them, things will be different under Pete Carroll. Spearheading that change is going to be a foundational pair that’s looking to dominate for the coming years.
Ashton Jeanty and Jackson Powers-Johnson are about to run wild…
After an abysmal run game doomed the 2024 version of the Raiders, among other things, the organization made sure to address this glaring hole. Ashton Jeanty, Boise State’s prolific running back was the choice at No. 6 during last month’s NFL draft. Last year, the team also made it a point to address their interior offensive line by drafting JPJ. The former Oregon stalwart has now been entrenched as the long-term center. These two figure to drive through the hearts of opposing defenses right out of the gate.
Jeanty’s collegiate run is one of legendary status; the stats are insane but as seen in rookie minicamp recently, he’s more than just numbers. Even Powers-Johnson himself has seen it for himself, raving about his new teammate to J.T. The Brick.
“Everything is true about what they are saying about this guy. He is just a ball of muscle. And when I dabbed him up and gave him a hug, it was pure metal. You know his speed, his agility, and how he likes to play.”
While many fans weren’t crazy about a running back being the first round selection, it goes to show you a few things. One, just as JPJ has noted, Jeanty is a specimen, a freak athlete that might well transform the Raiders offense. Two, the running game was so bad that you couldn’t afford to not take a running back early. Third, this new regime understands what a dominant run game can do for you; this is why fans don’t run teams.
Not only did Powers-Johnson gush about Jeanty’s imposing figure, he made sure to give kudos when it came to other facets of his game. Most notably, you guessed it, Jeanty’s run blocking which will also be pivotal this upcoming season.
“He loves to block. That is a lineman’s dream. He is a great guy. And he is going to have such a great year, and I am excited to block for him.”
The AFC West, maybe the whole league, will soon come to know this duo; the Raiders have their own Chewie and Han Solo (cool, calm, collected, and nasty when you need them to be).
How Will New Raiders CB Darien Porter Fit In Patrick Graham’s Defense?