Raiders Offensive Coordinator Wants Ashton Jeanty To Adjust His Blocking Style

David

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Post on May 22, 2025

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Raiders OC Wants Ashton Jeanty to Adjust His Blocking Style: A Crucial Shift for the Offense?

The Las Vegas Raiders' offensive line is under intense scrutiny as the season approaches, and a key focus is on rookie tight end, Ashton Jeanty. Offensive Coordinator Mick Lombardi has reportedly requested a significant adjustment to Jeanty's blocking technique, a move that could be pivotal for the team's offensive success in 2023. This isn't just about a minor tweak; it's a potential game-changer that could impact Jeanty's playing time and the overall effectiveness of the Raiders' ground game and pass protection.

Jeanty's Strengths and Weaknesses:

Jeanty, a standout from Coastal Carolina, impressed scouts with his athleticism and receiving skills. His agility and route-running abilities were undeniable assets, leading to his selection by the Raiders. However, his blocking, a critical element for any tight end in the NFL, requires refinement. While he possesses the physical attributes to become a formidable blocker, his technique needs work. Reports suggest a tendency towards over-extending and a lack of consistent hand placement, leading to missed blocks and penalties.

Lombardi's Demands: A Focus on Technique Over Power:

Lombardi's coaching philosophy emphasizes precision and technique. He's reportedly urging Jeanty to focus less on overpowering defenders and more on utilizing proper footwork, hand placement, and leverage. This approach aligns with the Raiders' overall offensive scheme, which relies heavily on quick, decisive plays. By honing his technique, Jeanty can become a more reliable blocker, even if he lacks the sheer brute strength of some veteran linemen.

The Impact on the Raiders' Offensive Strategy:

This adjustment could have a significant cascading effect on the Raiders' offense. A more effective Jeanty in blocking translates to better protection for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, allowing for longer developing plays and more consistent pass attempts. Furthermore, improved blocking from Jeanty would significantly benefit the Raiders' running game, opening holes for Josh Jacobs and the other running backs.

Parallel to Other NFL Rookies:

Jeanty’s situation mirrors that of many other rookie offensive linemen across the NFL. The transition to the professional level demands a significant refinement of technique, and many young players struggle initially. However, with diligent coaching and practice, players can overcome these initial hurdles. The story of several successful NFL offensive linemen showcases the importance of consistent coaching and dedication to mastering the fundamentals. Think of players like Trent Williams – his success wasn’t solely based on raw power, but rather a combination of power and precise technique.

The Road Ahead for Jeanty:

The coming weeks will be crucial for Jeanty's development. His ability to adapt to Lombardi's coaching and refine his blocking technique will determine his role within the Raiders' offense. If he can successfully integrate these changes, he could become a valuable asset, contributing both as a receiver and a reliable blocker. His performance during training camp and the preseason will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.

Conclusion:

The pressure is on Ashton Jeanty to adapt his blocking style, a critical factor influencing the success of the Las Vegas Raiders' offense in 2023. This isn't just about Jeanty’s individual performance; it’s about the overall effectiveness of the offensive line and the entire team. The coming weeks will be decisive in determining whether he can make the necessary adjustments and contribute significantly to the Raiders' success. Keep an eye on Jeanty's progress – his development could be one of the key storylines to watch this season.