As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Las Vegas Raiders hold the sixth overall pick, prompting widespread speculation about their selection strategy. One compelling prospect is Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, whose dynamic skill set could significantly enhance the Raiders’ offense. This potential move aligns with the team’s current roster composition, coaching philosophy, and the evolving valuation of running backs in the NFL. Ashton Jeanty to the Las Vegas Raiders at #6 looks to be a strong possibility.
Current Roster and Running Back Depth
The Raiders’ backfield has undergone significant changes this offseason. The departure of leading rusher Alexander Mattison, who contributed 420 yards and four touchdowns in 2024, has left a notable void. The current roster includes Zamir White, Isaiah Spiller, Dylan Laube, Sincere McCormick, Chris Collier, and Tyreik McAllister. Among them, White and McCormick each produced 183 rushing yards in 2024, with McCormick’s output coming on 39 carries, demonstrating potential efficiency. Laube, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, struggled with ball security, recording one carry for zero yards and a fumble. This group lacks a proven lead back, highlighting the need for an infusion of top-tier talent in the running game.
Coaching Staff and Offensive Philosophy
The Raiders’ new head coach, Pete Carroll, has a storied history of emphasizing a balanced offensive approach that heavily features the running game. Carroll’s philosophy centers on competition and building a strong team around the quarterback position, rather than relying solely on the quarterback to carry the team. He believes in running the football, protecting the quarterback, taking care of the ball, playing great defense, and making strategic use of special teams.
To implement this vision, Carroll has brought in Chip Kelly as the offensive coordinator. Kelly’s track record includes leading top-ranked rushing offenses during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles and, more recently, orchestrating Ohio State’s offense to an 18th national ranking in rushing yards. The synergy between Carroll’s overarching philosophy and Kelly’s play-calling acumen underscores the Raiders’ commitment to revitalizing their ground game.
Ashton Jeanty to the Las Vegas Raiders
Ashton Jeanty emerges as an ideal candidate to spearhead the Las Vegas Raiders’ rushing attack. During his collegiate career at Boise State, Jeanty amassed impressive statistics, including 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns in 2024. His versatility as a runner and receiver, coupled with his vision and agility, makes him a dynamic threat in both traditional rushing plays and the passing game. Integrating Jeanty into the Raiders’ offense would provide the team with a multifaceted weapon capable of executing Kelly’s diverse playbook effectively.
Rising Valuation of Running Backs in the NFL 
The NFL has witnessed a resurgence in the valuation of elite running backs, driven by standout performances from players like Saquon Barkley, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Derrick Henry. Barkley’s exceptional 2024 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he approached single-season rushing records and led his team to the Super Bowl, has reignited discussions about the impact a premier running back can have on a team’s success. Similarly, Gibbs’ selection at 12th overall in the 2023 draft underscored a shift in draft strategies, highlighting the value teams are placing on top-tier rushing talent.
Financial Implications of Draft Position
The financial considerations of drafting a running back at sixth versus twelfth overall are significant. Historically, top-ten picks command higher salaries due to the structured rookie wage scale. For instance, in the 2023 NFL Draft, the eighth overall pick signed a four-year, fully guaranteed $21.5 million contract, while the twelfth pick secured a four-year, $17.5 million deal. This disparity suggests that selecting Jeanty at sixth overall would entail a higher financial commitment. However, the potential return on investment, given Jeanty’s projected impact and the current market dynamics favoring elite running backs, could justify this expenditure.
Other Team Needs and Strategic Considerations
While the running back position is a pressing concern, the Raiders also have other areas requiring attention, including offensive line depth, linebacker replacements, and enhancements in the secondary. The recent departures of linebackers Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo to free agency have left gaps in the defense. Potential replacements such as Jalon Walker and Jihaad Campbell are being considered in the draft. Additionally, the offensive line remains a priority, with discussions around drafting prospects like Armand Membou to bolster protection for the quarterback and support the running game.
Given these multiple needs, the Raiders have contemplated trading down from the sixth pick to acquire additional draft capital. This strategy could allow the team to select Jeanty in the 11-14 range while addressing other roster deficiencies. However, the risk of losing Jeanty to another team necessitates careful evaluation of the trade-down approach.
Conclusion
Selecting Ashton Jeanty with the sixth overall pick presents a strategic opportunity for the Las Vegas Raiders. It addresses a critical roster need, aligns with the coaching staff’s offensive philosophy emphasizing a robust running game, and reflects the rising value of elite running backs in the NFL. While financial considerations and other team needs warrant deliberation, Jeanty’s potential to invigorate the Raiders’ offense and contribute to a balanced, competitive team under Coach Pete Carroll’s leadership makes him a compelling choice as the draft approaches. As stated above, Ashton Jeanty to the Las Vegas Raiders at #6 in the NFL Draft is looking more and more like it’s going to happen.