Add The New York Post on Google Klint Kubiak did not reveal much about the ankle injury Ashton Jeanty suffered Sunday at Raiders training camp.
How severe is it? How long might Jeanty be sidelined? What is the latest diagnosis, and when might the Raiders’ star running back return?
Kubiak did not go there when he spoke to the media on Tuesday. It was the first time Kubiak has met with reporters since the second-year running back went down.
“Not going to get into injuries,” Kubiak said. “He’s on the mend.”
That was hardly surprising. Until the Raiders enter an actual game week – when they and every other NFL team must become more forthcoming through official practice and game-status reports – there is little benefit to revealing too much.
In the meantime, Mike Washington Jr. appears likely to take over as the Raiders’ primary running back. The fourth-round rookie has impressed throughout the preseason, flashing the burst and playmaking ability that could make him a capable replacement for however long Jeanty is unavailable.
The next meaningful clue regarding Jeanty’s timeline could arrive Sunday, when the Raiders must reduce their roster to 53 players.
Prior to setting their roster, NFL teams can designate up to two players placed on injured reserve for a possible return. Such players must miss at least four games. If the Raiders do not use that option with Jeanty, it would be an encouraging sign that they do not view his injury as a longer-term issue, even if his availability for the season opener remains uncertain.
Kubiak was more willing to discuss what Jeanty’s teammates did immediately after the injury and what their response revealed about the group.
As Jeanty left the practice field with the help of team trainers, unable to put weight on his injured leg, his teammates gathered and took a knee in prayer.
“I’m a huge believer in the power of prayer,” Kubiak said.
The fact that Jeanty appears to have avoided the worst possible outcome and is expected to return at some point offered a measure of relief. The support his teammates showed also stood out to Kubiak.
“I think that says a lot about him being on the mend and us counting on him,” Kubiak said. “So we’re really excited to get him back.”
