Full Breakdown
Raiders’ Final Preseason Decisions: Guard Battle and Running-Back Injury
8/27/2026, 8:02:54 AM
Core Event – Final Preseason Stakes
The Las Vegas Raiders enter their last preseason contest against the San Francisco 49ers with two roster issues unresolved. The right-guard spot is contested between incumbent starter Jackson Powers-Johnson and 2025 second-round pick Caleb Rogers, while second-year running back Ashton Jeanty is listed as “on the mend” after an ankle sprain in practice. Both matters will shape the 53-man roster announced before the league’s cut-down day.
Background & Context
Klint Kubiak’s first season follows a 4-13 campaign in which the Raiders ranked last in points (14.2 per game) and total yards (245.2 per game). The offseason added a record contract for center Tyler Linderbaum and the signing of versatile tight end/fullback Connor Heyward, but depth at guard and running back remains a concern.
Position Battles – Right Guard Competition
Powers-Johnson allowed two sacks and ten pressures over eight games last season, while Rogers, the No. 98 overall pick, split first-team reps with him throughout camp. The coaching staff has not indicated a definitive winner, leaving the decision to performance in the Thursday night matchup.
Running-Back Situation – Jeanty Injury Update
During a Sunday practice, Jeanty dove for a low pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins and sprained his ankle, preventing weight-bearing on his right leg. Kubiak said, “Again, Ashton got hurt in practice, and the whole team took a knee. That says a lot about him being on the mend and counting on him.” Rookie Mike Washington Jr., the fourth-round 2026 pick, has taken the bulk of first-team reps, posting 119 yards on 15 carries (7.9 ypc) and a 53-yard run in the preseason opener.
Official Statements & Responses
Wide-receiver Tre Tucker added that the group is “doing everything they can” to step up amid the roster uncertainty.
Data & Statistics
- Ashton Jeanty (2025 rookie season): 975 rushing yards, 5 rushing TDs; 55 receptions for 346 yards, 5 receiving TDs.
- Mike Washington Jr. (2026 preseason): 119 rushing yards on 15 carries, 7.9 ypc, 53-yard run.
- Jackson Powers-Johnson (2025): 2 sacks allowed, 10 pressures in 8 games (7 starts).
- Caleb Rogers: No. 98 overall pick in 2025 draft; split first-team reps with Powers-Johnson in camp.
- Tre Tucker (2025): Career-high 57 receptions.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Media outlets differ on Jeanty’s projected availability. Some suggest he could miss the season opener, while others label the injury “not a long-term issue” but stop short of a timeline. No official medical update has been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Again, Ashton got hurt in practice, and the whole team took a knee. That says a lot about him being on the mend and counting on him,” — Klint Kubiak, Raiders head coach
- “I know they’re doing everything they can do,” — Tre Tucker, wide receiver
