Las Vegas Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly spoke to reporters regarding adjustments made by rookie running back Ashton Jeanty to his backfield stance. Kelly clarified that it was running backs coach Deland McCullough who advised Jeanty on this change, noting, 'I didn't tell anybody on this team to be in any stances because I don't coach positions.'

Jeanty, who was selected by the Raiders with the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, provided insights into his interactions with Kelly during a May 19 appearance on Up & Adams. He recounted a notable moment at rookie minicamp when Kelly approached him and inquired about his basketball experience, leading to a demonstration of defensive positioning. This exchange culminated in Kelly advising Jeanty that his running back stance needed to be lower to enhance his performance on the field.

Having previously employed an upright stance throughout his college career at Boise State, where he finished second in Heisman Trophy voting, Jeanty confirmed his commitment to adapting his stance as requested by the coaching staff. Although he acknowledged the necessity of earning his place on the team before fully embracing this change, he expressed optimism about the potential for his original stance to return in the future. Following an impressive junior season, in which Jeanty amassed 2,601 rushing yards and scored 30 touchdowns over 14 games, he now looks to contribute to a Raiders offense that struggled with the league's worst rushing attack last season. Kelly has also noted Jeanty's coachability and potential versatility, indicating confidence in his ability to play multiple roles within the offense.