Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

USC Legend Reacts to Ashton Jeanty Landing With Raiders

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lorenzo J. Reyna | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 1:15 PM ET

Ashton Jeanty rose as a massive winner Thursday in landing to the Las Vegas Raiders. One USC legend sounded off on the move, as Jeanty soon plays for former Trojans coach Pete Carroll.

Count Marcus Allen as one who likes Jeanty's fit with the silver and black. The Hall of Fame running back and USC icon praised the pick.

"Jeanty is an incredible running back, a great competitor, a great person, I know he's going to come in and do everything he possibly can to make the Raiders feel they made the right choice and stuff," Allen said in a Raiders social media video. "I'm looking forward to it."

Silver and Black fans remember Allen delivering six Pro Bowl appearances. He's also revered for winning Super Bowl XVIII honors in leading the Raiders past Washington. Allen himself knows what it takes to dominate defenses after handoffs. USC fans recall Allen claiming the 1981 Heisman Trophy after piling a nation-best 2,342 yards.

Jeanty heads to the league as a Heisman Trophy finalist. He compiled 2,601 yards to lead every NCAA running back. What does Allen see in Jeanty's own game as a RB?

"He is the quintessential running back--he has all the tools, he can catch, he can run, he has great balance, he has great vision, he has speed," Allen said.

The Super Bowl winning RB believes Jeanty adds one more dynamic element to Carroll's first Raiders team.

"So I'm look forward to, really next year's explosive offense now, we got a lot of weapons. We just added one, Brock Bowers, obviously, last year. We got some young talent out there, which is nice to see," Allen said.

Allen isn't the only Raiders legend who loves the selection. Former Raiders quarterback and 2002 Most Valuable Player winner Rich Gannon praised the pick via social media.

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

More must-reads: