Las Vegas Raiders fans are understandably excited about Ashton Jeanty; however, a recent comparison to Barry Sanders may be overly optimistic, don’t you think?
Raiders legend Marcus Allen certainly seems to think so.
When a Raiders alumnus like Allen compares a rookie running back to Sanders, the NFL world takes notice. That’s the level of buzz surrounding Jeanty, Las Vegas’ intriguing new weapon out of college. Allen’s words weren’t tossed around lightly—he acknowledged it’s “not fair” to put Jeanty in Sanders’ category just yet, but he couldn’t ignore the similarities in explosiveness, agility, and game-breaking potential (H/T Vegas Sports Today).
Is the comparison fair to the Raiders rookie?
The comparison holds significant merit. Both Jeanty and Sanders have set all-time rushing records in their respective college careers, creating a remarkable connection that points to the upside for the rookie. Jeanty’s combination of vision, burst, and agility in traffic has already made him a standout player that Raider Nation is buzzing about.
But as every rookie quickly learns, the NFL has a way of testing you early. Jeanty had his “welcome to the league” moment on Saturday versus the San Francisco 49ers, taking a big hit that sent him to the sideline and briefly into the medical tent. Cameras caught him shaking his arm as trainers checked him out, sparking understandable concern.
#Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty in the medical tent. Took a shot that last drive and was shaking his arm as he came off the field.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 16, 2025
Fortunately, Jeanty quickly returned to the sideline, appearing unharmed—a relief for a Raiders offense that anticipates his significant contribution this season.
Only time will validate the Ashton Jeanty hype…
In many ways, the incident underscored the reality of Jeanty’s journey. Having potential is one thing; however, proving his durability and consistency against NFL-caliber defenders presents the real challenge.
If Jeanty can maintain his health and translate the flashes of his college dominance to the professional level, he could become the type of running back Las Vegas has been searching for—a genuine difference-maker who can change the game at any moment. Again though, his health will be the X-factor this season.
For now, the hype is real. The comparisons are lofty. And Jeanty’s story is just beginning.
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*Top Photo: Ramble Illustration/Getty Images