In a striking turn of events during the Las Vegas Raiders’ rookie minicamp, Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly has requested standout rookie running back Ashton Jeanty to drop his viral and much-debated “Michael Myers” stance. The iconic upright posture that Jeanty used in college is now under NFL scrutiny — and possibly headed for retirement.
Raiders Rethink Ashton Jeanty Stance at Rookie Camp
Jeanty’s stance — tall, arms straight at his sides, motionless and intimidating like the slasher villain Michael Myers — became a viral talking point during his final season at Boise State. It wasn’t just for show either; Jeanty rushed for over 2,600 yards in 2024 and finished as a Heisman Trophy runner-up. His imposing stillness before the snap unsettled defenders and energized highlight reels.
But in the NFL, style doesn’t always trump structure.
Chip Kelly, the Raiders’ newly-appointed offensive play-caller, saw room for improvement. Instead of letting the rookie rely on flair, he challenged him to adopt a more dynamic, lower stance that would offer greater explosiveness and balance. Kelly reportedly even had Jeanty assume a defensive basketball stance as an example — legs bent, center low, ready to burst forward.
Why the Ashton Jeanty Stance May Not Translate to the NFL
There’s a reason why Kelly’s comments carry weight. The NFL isn’t a highlight show; it’s a precision league. Coaches want muscle memory, fast-twitch reactions, and consistent body mechanics. And while the Ashton Jeanty stance worked in college, Kelly is betting that a more traditional posture will help Jeanty hit the next gear against elite-level defenses.
Jeanty, for his part, seems open to the change — for now.
“Sometimes you’ve got to go with the flow,” he said, admitting Kelly’s coaching has shifted his approach. Still, the rookie didn’t completely close the door on his iconic stance. “He won for now,” Jeanty joked, hinting that the “Michael Myers” look might return once he proves himself in silver and black.
Jeanty’s Path from Viral Sensation to NFL Contributor
Ashton Jeanty’s NFL debut is already one of the most talked-about rookie transitions this offseason — not because of contract holdouts or injuries, but due to a posture. That alone speaks to the kind of presence he brings to the field.
But beyond the Ashton Jeanty stance, what really matters now is how quickly he adjusts. He’s stepping into a Raiders offense in transition, one that’s hungry for energy, identity, and new stars. Jeanty, with his elite college production and willingness to be coached, could be exactly what they need.
Whether he’s crouched low in a textbook stance or haunting defenses with that signature stillness, what matters most is his performance. Coaches know it. Jeanty knows it. And fans — well, they’re just excited to see how it unfolds.
Jeanty’s NFL Journey: What Comes Next
In the coming weeks, Jeanty will get more reps, face veterans in training camp, and find out where he truly stands — literally and figuratively — in the Raiders’ backfield rotation. He has the vision, the burst, and the production on his resume. But the NFL demands evolution.
The decision to refine the Ashton Jeanty stance is just the first chapter in what could be a compelling rookie season. Will Chip Kelly’s advice unlock another level in Jeanty’s game? Or will fans someday chant for the return of the “Michael Myers” pose?
Either way, the spotlight is firmly on Jeanty. And he’s handling it like a pro.
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