Las Vegas rookie running back Ashton Jeanty faced intense criticism following the Raiders’ 20-9 Monday Night Football loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. On September 16, 2025, fans on X (formerly Twitter) accused Jeanty of giving up on quarterback Geno Smith during a crucial play. One viral post summed up the frustration:
“I’d be sick of watching Geno Smith play quarterback too. Like what exactly is Jeanty supposed to do here?”
I’d be sick of watching Gino smith play quarterback too. Like what exactly is jeanty supposed to do here ?
— The Audacity (@Foggdiesel88) September 16, 2025
Ashton Jeanty’s Effort Questioned Amid Raiders’ Offensive Collapse
Ashton Jeanty’s Effort Questioned Amid Raiders’ Offensive Collapse
Ashton Jeanty’s Effort Questioned Amid Raiders’ Offensive Collapse | X
The Raiders drafted Jeanty in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft to ignite a ground attack that has been stagnant for years. Instead, Las Vegas ranks 31st in both rushing yards and yards per carry through two games this season. Against the Chargers, Jeanty produced only 43 yards on 11 carries. His blocking also came under scrutiny. Jeanty initially picked up a rusher on the widely circulated clip but was quickly pushed aside. As Smith scrambled under heavy pressure, Jeanty jogged in the backfield instead of re-engaging the block.
Watch Ashton Jeanty.
pic.twitter.com/UW9ZhjkbbG
— Savage (@SavageSports_) September 16, 2025
That sequence ignited debate over his readiness for the pro game. Critics argued the moment reflected a lack of urgency expected at the NFL level. Supporters countered that Smith’s poor performance, 24 completions on 43 attempts for 180 yards with three interceptions and no touchdowns, left Jeanty with few options. But the perception of “quitting” stuck, with multiple posts echoing the same sentiment.
The Raiders’ offensive issues magnify the spotlight on Jeanty. Las Vegas failed to score a touchdown Monday night and trailed 17-6 at halftime. Both teams managed just three points apiece after the break, but the Chargers’ defense dominated the line of scrimmage until Khalil Mack exited with an arm injury. Jeanty’s minimal impact as a runner and blocker underscores the team’s larger problem: Smith is exposed without a reliable ground game, and the offense stalls.
As Las Vegas prepares for Week 3, the rookie must prove he can contribute beyond rushing yards to justify his first-round status and quiet a growing wave of criticism.