Raiders GM John Spytek speaks out on drafting RB amid Ashton Jeanty buzz

Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek recently discussed the importance of the running back position, as the Raiders have been heavily linked to selecting an RB in the 2025 NFL draft, potentially as early as the first round.

NFL analyst Ari Meirov on Friday shared a video of Spytek’s comments on X (formerly Twitter), in which the general manager made clear his appreciation for the position.

"I mean, we just saw Saquon Barkley just change the Eagles in one year," he said. "Now they had a great team around them. And, you know, it was adding an elite player. And I think when you sit where we sit, I mean, the idea is to add elite players at any position. And I don't try to devalue any certain position."

Spytek went on to highlight how his experiences have shaped his perspective.

"There's certain ways to build a team, and I don't know where we got to a place where we don't feel like running backs are valued. I come from the University of Michigan to my core, and those guys were certainly really valued there. So it's hard for me to get away from that."

This stance is notable, as the Raiders have been rumored to be interested in Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with the No. 6 pick.

The Raiders finished last in the NFL in rushing yards per game in 2024, averaging only 79.8.

Looking at Ash Jeanty's fit with Raiders

Jeanty is considered one of the most complete running back prospects in recent draft memory and has been projected by some as a more well-rounded talent than Saquon Barkley was coming out of college. He posted more than 2,700 total yards and 30 total touchdowns in 2024 for the Broncos.

In NFL.com analyst Daniel Jeremiah's 2025 NFL mock draft 3.0, the Raiders used the No. 6 pick to select Jeanty.

“The Raiders can take some pressure off Geno Smith by adding Jeanty, who is one of the top three players in the draft," Jeremiah noted.

The addition of Jeanty to the Raiders’ offense would instantly make Las Vegas one of the most exciting units in the league, as they already feature quarterback Geno Smith and tight end Brock Bowers.