Raiders Expect Jeanty to Play in Opener Despite Ankle Sprain
Raiders coach Klint Kubiak expressed optimism that running back Ashton Jeanty will be available for the season opener against the Dolphins. Jeanty suffered an ankle sprain in training camp, but it is not considered a major injury. He did not practice Wednesday, but the team hopes he can play on Sept. 13.
Jeanty's ankle issue surfaced during a training camp session when he was helped off the field, initially alarming teammates. Subsequent reporting from Ian Rapoport clarified the injury as a low ankle sprain rather than a high one, with the team avoiding a worst-case scenario. He sat out Wednesday's practice, but head coach Klint Kubiak's public optimism signals the Raiders expect their featured back available for the Miami matchup.
The second-year back enters 2026 after a modest rookie campaign, posting 975 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 3.7 yards per carry. Drafted sixth overall in 2025, Jeanty was positioned as a franchise cornerstone. A strong opener against a beatable Dolphins defense would help him justify that investment and kickstart a bounce-back season.
Jeanty's availability carries weight for Raiders fans and fantasy football managers alike, as his performance directly shapes Las Vegas's offensive ceiling in a competitive AFC. A healthy Jeanty could stabilize the team's ground game and ease pressure on quarterback Kirk Cousins, potentially influencing early-season momentum. Conversely, a lingering injury could force the Raiders into a committee approach, altering game plans and expectations. The outcome may also affect ticket sales and viewership for the opener, given Jeanty's status as a marquee young player.