Jeanty reflected on his rookie campaign during a Feb. 5 appearance on Up & Adams, saying, “I wouldn’t say I exceeded my expectations. My expectations are very high, but for the cards I was dealt, I think I did very well with them, and I think I was able to have a successful rookie year.” The comment highlights a player who believes he performed well even as circumstances complicated his path.
Former NFL running back Maurice Jones-Drew has urged the Raiders to maximize Jeanty’s versatility, envisioning a creative, space-heavy role that mirrors the usage of Christian McCaffrey. On the Jan. 23 edition of 89 with Steve Smith and James Palmer, Jones-Drew argued that injecting Jeanty into the formation as a receiver, back, and motion threat could unlock his potential.
Jones-Drew also defended the Raiders’ decision to select Jeanty at No. 6 in the 2025 draft, arguing his talent was top-tier even if he’s not the same type of back as Gibbs, Bijan Robinson, or Saquon Barkley. He described Jeanty as a compact 5’8”, 215-pound runner with powerful legs, a combination that could shine in a suitable system.
Offseason priorities for Las Vegas include free agency, where the team currently holds the second-most cap space in the NFL. A marquee target is Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum. Former Raiders lineman Lincoln Kennedy said he would “throw a bag of money” at Linderbaum, emphasizing the importance of upgrading the line. Linderbaum’s 2025 PFF grades—80.2 overall, with 63.4 pass-blocking (22nd among centers) and 83.7 run-blocking (4th)—underscore the potential impact of a top-tier center on the Raiders’ run game. If Las Vegas signs him, Jeanty could see a notably different rushing attack next season.
