​Klint Kubiak into a springboard for Ashton Jeanty’s breakout: how the Raiders’ new offensive coordinator could unlock a breakthrough season in 2026. This piece originally appeared on The Sporting News. For better SEO, consider adding The Sporting News as a preferred source.
After a rookie year that fell short of its high expectations, Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty appears ready to take a significant step forward in 2026 with Klint Kubiak taking over as offensive coordinator. Jeanty endured a frustrating first NFL campaign in 2025, not reaching the 1,000-yard rushing milestone and averaging 3.7 yards per carry. Yet despite the uneven ground game, the Boise State alum demonstrated notable versatility by accumulating 1,321 total yards from scrimmage and scoring 10 touchdowns. He stood out as one of the few bright spots on an offense that struggled to find consistency, a sign that his ceiling may still be far higher than his rookie production suggested.
With Kubiak’s arrival, expectations are rising that Jeanty could become one of the league’s premier running backs. Kubiak is known for installing a zone-based rushing attack that emphasizes patience, vision, and one-cut explosiveness—traits that helped Jeanty develop into one of college football’s most dynamic runners. The scheme should enable Jeanty to maximize his exceptional balance, body control, and burst, especially when attacking the edges of defenses. Jeanty’s ability to shed tackles in space and accelerate through cutback lanes aligns perfectly with a zone-running approach, allowing him to exploit seams and mismatches more effectively.
Equally important is Kubiak’s demonstrated proficiency in leveraging running backs as receiving threats. Throughout his coaching career, his offenses have consistently integrated backs into the passing game, creating downhill mismatches against linebackers and safeties. This approach dovetails with Jeanty’s skill set, which flourished at Boise State as he developed into one of the nation’s most complete offensive weapons—a back who can contribute as a runner and a receiver. For the Raiders, that versatility offers the opportunity to design a multifaceted offense centered around Jeanty’s diverse capabilities.
The comparison to Christian McCaffrey may be ambitious, but Kubiak’s scheme has a track record of maximizing versatile backs in comparable fashion. If the Raiders’ offensive line improves and Kubiak tailors the system to Jeanty’s strengths, the second-year back could not only surpass the 1,000-yard rushing barrier but also vie for the NFL rushing title. A healthier supporting cast, a more favorable system, and another year of experience may be all Jeanty needs to emerge as one of the league’s breakout stars in 2026.
Looking ahead, Jeanty’s development will hinge on several factors: the offensive line’s performance, Kubiak’s ability to adapt his scheme to personnel, and Jeanty’s continued growth as a complete back who can contribute in both the rushing and receiving games. If these elements align, Jeanty could become a central figure in a revitalized Raiders offense, elevating his status from a promising rookie to an elite, game-changing playmaker in the NFL. The path to a breakout season could be paved by Kubiak’s zone scheme, Jeanty’s continued refinement, and an offense designed to maximize his unique skill set in 2026.