Raiders Reach New Low but Avoid Major Injury Scare With Rookie RB Ashton Jeanty

The Las Vegas Raiders endured one of their most difficult outings of the season in Week 12, falling 24–10 to a Cleveland Browns team led by rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. The loss underscored the team’s broader struggles, with breakdowns on both sides of the ball and few signs of improvement as the season enters its stretch run.

While frustration and disappointment defined the afternoon, the Raiders received a rare piece of positive news regarding one of their most important young players. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, who exited with an ankle injury, is not expected to miss significant time, according to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden.

The update offers a measure of relief for a team that has leaned heavily on Jeanty throughout the year. His development has been one of the lone bright spots in an otherwise turbulent campaign, providing flashes of the talent that made him the No. 6 overall pick.

With uncertainty surrounding Las Vegas’ coaching staff and overall roster direction, Jeanty’s health remains pivotal as the organization evaluates its long-term building blocks heading into the final stretch of the season.

1. Jeanty’s Injury Scare and Rookie Impact

Jeanty’s ankle injury occurred during the loss to Cleveland, briefly raising concerns about a potential long-term absence. Early reports, however, indicate that the injury is not severe, giving the rookie a realistic chance to return as soon as Week 13. His availability will be significant as Las Vegas continues searching for stability on offense. Through 11 games, Jeanty has totaled 604 rushing yards on 166 carries, adding four rushing touchdowns and four more as a receiver. His versatility has been crucial for a Raiders attack that often struggles to sustain drives or generate explosive plays. Despite entering the league with considerable expectations, Jeanty has operated behind an underperforming offensive line and within a system that has struggled to establish rhythm. His production, given the circumstances, has been a testament to his talent and adaptability. The Raiders hope that planned adjustments to the coaching staff and future roster reinforcements will provide Jeanty with the supporting cast necessary to maximize his potential in the seasons ahead.

2. Chip Kelly Dismissed After Offensive Collapse

Sunday’s performance prompted swift action from the Raiders’ front office. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly was fired hours after the loss, marking a decisive shift in leadership on the offensive side of the ball. Kelly, known for his creative schemes, was unable to elevate a unit that currently ranks among the league’s least efficient. Las Vegas mustered only 268 total yards against Cleveland’s defense, including a mere 60 on the ground. Beyond the yardage issues, the Raiders surrendered 10 sacks, repeatedly placing quarterback Geno Smith and the offense into impossible long-yardage situations. The offensive line’s breakdowns were particularly glaring, contributing to stalled drives and limiting any chance of establishing a balanced attack. The team’s failure to adapt to Cleveland’s pressure added to the sense of stagnation that has defined much of the season. Quarterbacks coach Greg Olson—distinct from the former tight end and broadcaster—has been promoted to interim offensive coordinator. His task will be formidable: reviving an offense that has struggled with protection, play design, and consistency.

3. What’s Next as Las Vegas Tries to Reset

Olson’s promotion comes with immediate pressure, as the Raiders face a challenging Week 13 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. Any offensive progress may depend on whether the line can provide steadier protection and whether Jeanty can return to the field in close to full health. Las Vegas will be looking for spark and structure, two elements that have been lacking in recent weeks. Olson’s familiarity with the quarterbacks may help streamline communication and simplify decision-making, but the issues extend far beyond play-calling alone. Defensively, the team must also find ways to complement its struggling offense. Too often this season, the Raiders have been unable to create momentum-changing stops or capitalize on field position, putting increased pressure on a unit that is already off balance. As the organization heads into a critical stretch, the overarching question remains whether the team can salvage signs of growth—or whether broader changes await once the season concludes.