The Kansas City Chiefs remain the class of the AFC West and their rivals are trying to catch up. While the Chiefs still remain the favorites to win the division as nine-time defending champions, the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers all added significant talent in an attempt to close the gap this offseason.
One notable rookie is Ashton Jeanty, who is making a new home with the Raiders. While he is one of the most anticipated players in this year’s class to make his debut, there’s already a sign that some in the organization are getting on his nerves to make an interesting dynamic entering his rookie season.
Raiders OC Chip Kelly Told Ashton Jeanty to Ditch His ‘Michael Myers’ Stance
Jeanty appeared on FanDuel TV’s “Up & Adams Show” on Monday morning and was asked about his trademark stance in the backfield. The stance, where Jeanty stands straight up like Michael Myers from the Halloween movie franchise, was one of his trademarks during his time at Boise State. But Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly insisted that he go to a more traditional approach during workouts.
“You know, sometimes, you have to, you know, go with the flow,” Jeanty said. “What’s crazy is, Chip Kelly comes to me first day of rookie minicamp, and he’s like ‘You ever play basketball?’ And I’m like ‘Yeah, I play basketball, you know, I can dunk and all that.’ He’s like, ‘OK, show me how you would guard me,’ and he’s acting like he’s holding the ball. And then he’s like, ‘That’s exactly why you have to be down in your running back stance.”
Jeanty has agreed to the change for now, but you could argue you don’t need to fix what’s not broken. The 21-year-old was one of college football’s most explosive playmakers the past two seasons for Boise State, running for 4,769 yards and 50 touchdowns.
He also finished as the runner-up to the Heisman Trophy last season, running for 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns while leading the Broncos to the College Football Playoff.
When describing the stance last October, Jeanty explained that it helps him relax in the backfield and gives him a sense of calm before chaos ensues when the ball is snapped.
“One of my coaches used to say if you couldn’t stand in that stance for five minutes, then it’s probably not a good stance,” Jeanty said via Blue Turf Sports. “So [it’s about] being relaxed and comfortable and at that point, I’m just reading the defense and waiting for the ball to snap. I wouldn’t say there’s anything too specific about it, just that I’m relaxed and comfortable and I’m just ready to make a play for my team.”
Kelly apparently didn’t buy it and it’s not surprising from an old-school regime led by 73-year-old Pete Carroll. While Jeanty may not agree with the assessment, he’s going with it for now although he left the door open for a change in the future.”
“He won for now,” Jeanty said. “I’m going to try to persuade him one day. I have to earn my stripes and make some plays first, but I don’t think it’s going to be the end [of the stance].”
If Jeanty struggles early, it could mean the return of his signature stance. But if he takes off, it could be easier to make the change without butting heads. It’s part of a bizarre drama that Chiefs fans can get a good laugh out of as they continue to sit on top of the division.
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