Ashton Jeanty’s ankle injury could change the Las Vegas Raiders’ plans, with Kareem Hunt emerging as an intriguing option as the season approaches.
Jeanty left Sunday’s practice unable to put weight on his leg after diving for a low throw from Kirk Cousins. However, the Raiders received some good news: both ESPN’s Adam Schefter and The Athletic’s Sam Warren report that the injury is thought to be a sprained ankle rather than a long-term issue.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport says the team is “breathing a sigh of relief,” though Las Vegas still doesn’t have a firm timeline for Jeanty’s return. This matters immensely for a Raiders team built around its second-year running back. Jeanty was drafted last year to be the engine of the offense, and any absence, even a short one, puts pressure on a thin depth chart behind him.
Related: At least Jackson Powers-Johnson has returned for the Raiders
Next man up for the Raiders?
Rookie Mike Washington Jr. is next in line, but he’s unproven at the NFL level. Las Vegas doesn’t have a clear complementary veteran on the roster to lean on right now.
That’s where Kareem Hunt comes in. Still unsigned in late August, Hunt offers exactly what the Raiders lack. He brings nine years of experience and AFC West familiarity from his Kansas City days. He’s also built a track record as a short-yardage and red-zone weapon who can catch passes out of the backfield.
Last season alone, he ran for 611 yards and 8 touchdowns on 163 carries after stepping into a starting role in Kansas City. He’d cost little against the cap on a one-year deal. His presence would let the Raiders bring Jeanty back on their own schedule. There’d be no need to rush him into a Week 1 workload.
The Raiders are expected to make a decision on Hunt within the next few days, if he’s indeed a target. They will likely wait for more clarity on Jeanty’s ankle from imaging and follow-up evaluations. This move would allow Las Vegas to strengthen its offense without jeopardizing Jeanty’s long-term role once he’s healthy.
Do you think the Raiders should sign Hunt regardless of how serious Jeanty’s injury turns out to be, or should they wait and see before committing a roster spot?
*Top Photo: Associated Press