Raiders seek to unlock Jeanty as line play struggles

Las Vegas Raiders rookie running back Ashton Jeanty received his heaviest workload to date in Week 3 but still struggled to produce consistently, leaving the team and outside observers pressing for changes as they prepare for Sunday’s game in Las Vegas. Jeanty carried 17 times for 63 yards in a 41-24 loss to the Washington Commanders on Sept. 21, giving him roughly 144 rushing yards through his first three NFL games and an average just over 3 yards per carry for the season.

Coaches, teammates and television analysts have offered differing diagnoses, but most agree on the core problems. Head coach Pete Carroll said the team is deliberately easing Jeanty into the pro game and promised his workload will grow. Postgame, Carroll praised Jeanty’s toughness in Washington while acknowledging the offense must run the ball more effectively. Quarterback Geno Smith similarly defended the rookie, saying it is the offense’s job to help Jeanty by winning the line of scrimmage and creating space.

At the same time, critics and analysts have zeroed in on the Raiders’ offensive line. Game analysis noted Jeanty was met at or behind the line of scrimmage on 11 of his 17 carries against Washington...