Las Vegas Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly addressed recent discussions surrounding rookie running back Ashton Jeanty's backfield stance. Kelly clarified that it was running backs coach Deland McCullough who suggested the adjustment, emphasizing his non-involvement in positional coaching. "I didn't tell anybody on this team to be in any stances because I don't coach positions," Kelly stated during a press conference.

Jeanty, who was selected by the Raiders as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, had previously mentioned on the show Up & Adams that Kelly encouraged him to rethink his stance during rookie minicamp. With a playful reference to basketball, Kelly asked Jeanty if he had played the sport and encouraged him to demonstrate defensive positioning. This exchange led to Kelly asserting the importance of a proper running back stance, which Jeanty noted was markedly different from his college stance at Boise State.

The 21-year-old Jeanty concluded a standout junior season in 2024, finishing second in Heisman Trophy voting, with remarkable statistics to back his prowess on the field. He led the nation with 2,601 rushing yards and scored a total of 30 touchdowns in 14 games, showcasing his ability to break tackles and evade defenders while averaging 7.0 yards per carry. Despite agreeing to adapt his stance based on coaching feedback, Jeanty expressed a desire to retain elements of his original style as he aims to contribute to a Raiders offense that struggled last season.