Raiders’ Backfield Battle: Jeanty vs. Washington Ahead of Chiefs Showdown

Overview of the Raiders’ Recent Rushing Efforts

Through the first three weeks of the 2025 NFL season, the Las Vegas Raiders have leaned heavily on their rushing attack to move the ball. Running backs Jeanty and Washington combined for 24 carries and 54 yards (2.3 yards per carry) in the Week 2 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, a performance hampered by struggles up front. The offensive line had difficulty handling the Chargers’ defensive front, limiting the backs’ ability to find running lanes.

In Week 3, the Raiders traveled to New Orleans and showed improvement. The line created more space, though Jeanty managed only 56 yards on 19 attempts (2.9 ypc). Washington, operating on a smaller sample, flashed explosiveness with five carries for 54 yards and a touchdown, averaging 10.8 yards per carry. That burst sparked early discussion about which back deserves a larger share of the workload moving forward.

Jeanty’s Ankle Concern and Usage Trends

Adding complexity to the backfield situation, Jeanty appears to have reaggravated an ankle injury that originated during training camp. He was absent from the Week 3 injury report, but the CBS broadcast noted he had his ankle retaped mid‑game. By Wednesday of Week 4, he appeared on the injury report with an ankle designation, although the Raiders listed him as a full participant in practice. The coaching staff has indicated they will monitor his status closely, especially given the increased defensive attention he draws.

According to Next Gen Stats, opponents have been loading the box against Jeanty at a higher rate than any other rookie running back this season. Facing eight or more defenders at the line of scrimmage or second level has become a regular theme, which helps explain the modest yards‑per‑carry numbers despite his talent.

Offensive Line Health and Its Impact

The Raiders’ offensive line remains a work in progress. Starting guard Jackson Powers‑Johnson suffered an injury in Week 3, and his availability for the upcoming game is uncertain. Even when healthy, the unit has shown inconsistency in sustaining blocks and creating vertical push, which directly affects the running game’s efficiency.

Coach Klint Kubiak has emphasized the need to “turn back the clock” and establish a physical, down‑hill rush attack. Improving line play will be essential if the Raiders hope to unlock the potential of both Jeanty and Washington.

Matchup Preview: Raiders vs. Chiefs

Las Vegas faces its biggest test of the season in Week 5: a road trip to Arrowhead Stadium to take on the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs are not only a division rival but also a franchise that has appeared in five Super Bowls since 2020. Entering the game as 4.5‑point underdogs, the Raiders will need to execute on all sides of the ball to pull off an upset.

Notably, Kansas City’s defense ranks third in the NFL in EPA per pass (‑0.20), trailing only the Jacksonville Jaguars by a razor‑thin margin. However, the unit is slightly below league average in EPA per rush (‑0.07), placing 17th overall. This suggests the Chiefs may be more vulnerable to a strong ground attack than to elite passing, increasing the importance of the Raiders’ rushing game.

Key Takeaways and What to Watch For

As the Raiders prepare for the Chiefs contest, several storylines will shape the outcome:

• Backfield distribution: Whether Jeanty receives the bulk of carries or Washington’s explosive upside earns him more touches will be a focal point.
• Health status: Jeanty’s ankle and Powers‑Johnson’s availability could dictate the effectiveness of the offensive line and the running game.
• Defensive game plan: Expect Kansas City to stack the box against Jeanty, forcing Las Vegas to counter with misdirection, play‑action, or giving Washington opportunities in space.
• Special teams and turnover margin: In a close contest against a talented opponent, field position and ball security could prove decisive.

The Raiders’ ability to establish a consistent rush attack—not just for yardage but to control the clock and keep the Chiefs’ potent offense off the field—will be a critical factor in their quest for an upset victory. Fans should tune in to CBS at 1:25 p.m. PST to see if the Silver and Black can turn the tide in their favor.

Sports, News, Las Vegas Raiders, Kansas City Chiefs, NFL, Jeanty, Washington, Jackson Powers-Johnson, Chiefs defense, AFC West