Raiders rookie Ashton Jeanty stuns at June 13 minicamp, drawing Barry Sanders comparisons. See how he and QB Geno Smith are revitalizing the 2025 offense.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Forget the usual minicamp storylines. The only name on anyone's lips in Las Vegas today is Ashton Jeanty. The rookie running back didn't just participate in the final day of mandatory minicamp; he dominated it, unleashing a performance so electrifying that national analysts are already dropping comparisons to Hall of Famer Barry Sanders. It's the kind of hype that signals a potential franchise-altering talent and has completely revitalized the outlook for the Raiders' ground game.
Analysts are comparing his impact to Barry Sanders.
The reports from the practice field sound like something out of a video game. Jeanty showcased a rare combination of explosive cuts, breakaway speed, and elite vision that left defenders grasping at air. Coaches and veteran teammates are reportedly stunned by his rapid ascent, with his performance single-handedly reviving what was a stagnant rushing attack. With Geno Smith now leading a more dynamic offense, Jeanty's emergence could be the missing piece that unlocks its full potential in 2025.
While Jeanty was the star, veteran QB Geno Smith was the steady hand guiding the ship. Teammates like defensive lineman Adam Butler praised Smith for his command of the new offense and his leadership throughout camp. Smith appears to have built a strong rapport with his receivers, and the entire unit is reportedly adapting well to the new schemes. Other rookies, like wideout Darien Porter, also flashed serious potential, adding to the sense that this offense has multiple new weapons ready to deploy.
The front office wasn't quiet, either. The Raiders officially signed veteran linebacker Germaine Pratt, a move designed to add experience and grit to the heart of the defense. To make room, safety Jonathan Sutherland was released. Pratt is expected to compete for a starting job immediately, but his arrival puts immense pressure on the rest of the young linebacker corps. The competition for roster spots just hit a new level. Meanwhile, the team continues to monitor the recovery of star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, whose health remains a pivotal storyline for the defense.
Underscoring the franchise's new defensive focus under head coach Pete Carroll, Hall of Fame cornerbacks Mike Haynes and Eric Allen were special guests at camp. The Raiders legends observed drills and offered mentorship to a young but talented secondary. Their presence serves as a powerful reminder of the standard of excellence the team is striving for. While the current cornerback room is still gelling, having Gold Jackets on hand to guide them—all while trade rumors for Jalen Ramsey continue to swirl—signals a major investment in rebuilding a championship-caliber defense.
Mandatory minicamp has wrapped, but the buzz is just beginning. The energy in Henderson is palpable, with a rookie phenom turning heads and a veteran QB taking firm control. All eyes now turn to training camp, where the hype surrounding Ashton Jeanty will be put to the test and fierce position battles, especially at linebacker, will determine the final shape of the 2025 Raiders. For the first time in a while, the future feels electric.
