Ashton Jeanty's Blocking Style Under Scrutiny: Raiders OC Wants Improvement

David

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Post on May 23, 2025

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Ashton Jeanty's Blocking Style Under Scrutiny: Raiders OC Wants Improvement

The Las Vegas Raiders' offensive line is under the microscope, and one player facing particular scrutiny is rookie tight end, Ashton Jeanty. While his receiving potential has shown flashes, his blocking technique has become a significant point of concern for Offensive Coordinator Mick Lombardi. This has sparked debate among analysts and fans alike, questioning whether Jeanty's current blocking style is sustainable at the NFL level.

The Raiders, known for their commitment to a powerful running game, require strong blocking from their tight ends. Jeanty, a sixth-round draft pick, is still adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NFL. Lombardi's public comments highlight the urgency for improvement in this area. "Ashton has shown glimpses of his potential," Lombardi stated recently. "But consistency in his blocking is crucial. He needs to refine his technique to meet the demands of this league."

<h3>Jeanty's Blocking Technique: Strengths and Weaknesses</h3>

Jeanty possesses impressive athleticism and a willingness to engage. However, his technique frequently needs refinement. Analysts point to several key weaknesses:

• Footwork: Inconsistency in his footwork leads to a lack of balance and power at the point of contact.
• Hand Placement: Jeanty sometimes uses his hands ineffectively, failing to secure a proper grip on defenders, leading to lost leverage.
• Sustained Blocks: Holding his blocks for extended periods, crucial in pass protection, remains a challenge for the young tight end.

These technical shortcomings have resulted in missed assignments and pressure on the Raiders' quarterbacks. While he displays effort, the execution frequently falls short. His strengths, however, lie in his potential. His athleticism and frame suggest a capacity for significant improvement with dedicated coaching and practice.

<h3>The Path to Improvement: Coaching and Practice</h3>

The Raiders coaching staff is actively working with Jeanty to address these issues. This involves film study, drills focusing on specific techniques, and personalized coaching sessions. Lombardi has stressed the importance of consistent practice and repetition to solidify these fundamental aspects of blocking.

This isn't just about technique; it's also about strength and conditioning. The physical demands of blocking in the NFL are immense, requiring significant lower body strength and core stability. Jeanty will likely undergo a tailored training regime to enhance his power and resilience.

<h3>The Long-Term Outlook for Jeanty</h3>

The situation isn't hopeless. Many young offensive linemen and tight ends face similar challenges early in their careers. With focused effort and the support of the coaching staff, Jeanty possesses the potential to develop into a valuable contributor. His athleticism gives him a strong foundation to build upon.

The upcoming weeks and games will be critical in assessing Jeanty's progress. His performance will directly impact the Raiders' offensive success. While the scrutiny is warranted, the team clearly believes in his potential and is committed to his development. The question remains: Can Jeanty make the necessary improvements to become a reliable blocker in the NFL? Only time will tell.

Keywords: Ashton Jeanty, Las Vegas Raiders, NFL, Offensive Line, Blocking, Tight End, Mick Lombardi, Offensive Coordinator, Football, NFL Draft, Rookie, Football Analysis, NFL News

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Call to Action (subtle): Keep an eye on Jeanty's progress throughout the season! His development will be a key storyline for the Raiders.