Raiders' New Two-Back System: Jeanty Shares Load

The Las Vegas Raiders are adopting a two-back system for the upcoming 2026 NFL season, a strategy championed by head coach Klint Kubiak. This approach will feature starting running back Ashton Jeanty sharing the workload with rookie running back Mike Washington, whom the Raiders selected in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Jeanty, who handled a significant carry load in his previous seasons, acknowledged the benefits of the new system. He stated his enthusiasm for playing alongside Washington, believing it will help wear down opposing defenses. This strategy aims to sustain a high level of performance throughout games.

Coach Kubiak emphasized that while a strong backup is important, the best players need to be on the field. He drew parallels to successful backfield usage in systems like the one employed by the Super Bowl-winning Seattle Seahawks last year. Kubiak indicated that the Raiders aim to keep their key playmakers involved extensively.

This dual-back approach is intended not only to enhance the Raiders' offensive capabilities by keeping defenses fatigued but also to contribute to the longevity of their running backs. By distributing carries, the team hopes to maintain freshness and reduce the risk of injuries for both Jeanty and Washington during the 2026 season.