Raiders Make Ashton Jeanty NFL's Second-Highest Paid RB with Groundbreaking Deal

They say running backs don't get paid in today's NFL. But those people haven’t seen Ashton Jeanty in action.

The Las Vegas Raiders shook up the 2025 NFL Draft when they selected Ashton Jeanty with the No. 6 overall pick. That pick not only adds a game-changing talent to the Raiders' offense but also results in a contract that puts him among the highest-paid running backs in the league.

With this move, Ashton Jeanty is now the second-highest paid RB in the NFL in terms of guaranteed money. It’s a bold investment. But one that the Raiders believe will pay off big.

A New Star for the Silver and Black

The Raiders entered the 2025 offseason with a clear mission: improve their offense. After acquiring Geno Smith to lead the quarterback room, the next central hole was at running back.

The team’s backfield featured Raheem Mostert, Zamir White, and Sincere McCormick—solid depth, but no true star. The front office wanted someone who could change the game on every touch. That player is Ashton Jeanty.

Jeanty dominated at Boise State. In 2024, he ran for over 1,800 yards and added 18 touchdowns on the ground. He also caught 45 passes for 510 yards and five more scores. His all-around skill set made him one of the most complete backs in the draft class. He finished as the Heisman Trophy runner-up, a rare honor for a running back in today’s game.

Ashton Jeanty's Groundbreaking NFL Contract

Rookie contracts are based on draft position, and being drafted No. 6 overall puts Jeanty in elite company. His rookie deal is fully guaranteed and worth around $32 million over four years.

That figure places Ashton Jeanty as the second-highest-paid running back in the NFL based on guaranteed money. The only player ahead of him is Saquon Barkley, who secured $36 million in guarantees from the Philadelphia Eagles.

Here’s a look at where Jeanty stands among the league’s top-paid backs:

Top 10 NFL Running Backs by Guaranteed Money:

Saquon Barkley – $36 million (Eagles)
Ashton Jeanty – $32 million (Raiders)
Jonathan Taylor – $26.5 million (Colts)
Christian McCaffrey – $24 million (49ers)
Alvin Kamara – $22.23 million (Saints)
Bijan Robinson – $21.95 million (Falcons)
Jahmyr Gibbs – $17.84 million (Lions)
Rhamondre Stevenson – $17.11 million (Patriots)
Chuba Hubbard – $16.55 million (Panthers)
D’Andre Swift – $15.3 million (Bears)

The size of Jeanty's contract is proof that the Raiders view him as more than just a running back. They see him as an offensive weapon who can help shape the identity of their team.

Why the Raiders Drafted Jeanty at No. 6

Drafting a running back in the top 10 has become rare in recent years. Teams often prioritize quarterbacks, pass rushers, and tackles. But the Raiders bucked that trend for a simple reason: Ashton Jeanty is different.

He’s not a one-dimensional player. He’s explosive between the tackles, dangerous in space, and a reliable pass catcher. He even lined up in the slot at times in college. That versatility made him impossible to pass up.

The Raiders also had a clear need. Their rushing attack ranked in the bottom half of the league in both yards and efficiency in 2024. With Jeanty on the field, that’s likely to change quickly.

Jeanty Can Make an Immediate Impact

One of the main reasons for Jeanty’s high draft value is his readiness to contribute from Day 1. He’s not a “developmental” player. He’s a plug-and-play starter with All-Pro upside.

Expect the Raiders to use Jeanty in a variety of ways. He’ll be the featured back on early downs, a mismatch in the passing game on third down, and a red-zone weapon near the goal line.

He brings speed, vision, and toughness. But more importantly, he brings production. Jeanty has proven he can handle a full workload without losing effectiveness.

A Shift in the Running Back Narrative?

The NFL has undergone significant changes in recent years. Teams hesitate to invest big money in running backs due to concerns about longevity and injury. But Jeanty’s contract could signal a turning point.

His deal shows that if you’re elite, you’ll get paid, regardless of position. The Raiders weren’t afraid to break the mold. And Jeanty’s performance will now help decide whether that gamble pays off.

If he performs as expected, other teams may follow suit. His deal could open doors for future running backs to earn what they deserve.

Final Thoughts

The Raiders made a statement in the 2025 NFL Draft. They didn’t just draft a running back. They drafted a franchise cornerstone.

Ashton Jeanty now carries high expectations and a big contract. But if his college career is any indication, he’s more than ready for the challenge.

As he prepares to take the field in silver and black, all eyes will be on Jeanty. And with the size of this deal, the Raiders are betting big that their investment will pay off—for years to come.

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