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Raiders’ Rushing Numbers Reveal a Serious Offensive Problem
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The numbers paint a troubling picture for the Las Vegas Raiders. Through the early portion of the 2026 NFL season, the Raiders rank 31st among 32 NFL teams in yards per carry, averaging just 3.0 yards per rushing attempt. For an offense built around head coach Klint Kubiak’s rushing philosophy, that level of production is unacceptable.

During his time as the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, Kubiak benefited from a two-running-back system featuring Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet. The combination gave Seattle different running styles, allowing the offense to maintain balance while keeping defenses guessing.

That same approach could help the Raiders maximize Ashton Jeanty’s potential. Jeanty was selected sixth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft to become a cornerstone of the franchise’s offense. However, asking one running back to consistently produce behind an offensive line struggling to create running lanes is a recipe for frustration.

The Raiders must also determine whether Mike Washington Jr. can become a reliable complementary option. If Washington develops into a productive second running back, Las Vegas may already have the foundation for the type of backfield Kubiak wants.

But if the Raiders continue averaging just three yards per carry, the organization cannot afford to ignore the position heading into the 2027 NFL Draft. Adding another running back with speed, physicality and pass-catching ability could provide much-needed competition and depth.

Still, improving the offensive line must remain a priority. The Raiders don’t need to replace Ashton Jeanty. They need to recreate the balanced rushing attack that helped make Kubiak’s system effective in Seattle. When a team ranks next to last in the NFL in yards per carry, standing pat shouldn’t be an option.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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