Raiders Running Back Ashton Jeanty Suffered Ankle Injury
Ashton Jeanty returned to the field after an injury, while wide receiver Jalen Nailor was ruled out with a concussion.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Football
Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty left the game against the Kansas City Chiefs in the third quarter with an ankle injury. He eventually returned to play, but teammate Jalen Nailor was ruled out following a hit that drew a penalty.
Why it matters
Player injuries can significantly alter game momentum and offensive strategy during critical matchups. The loss of key starters like Nailor forces team adjustments that test depth and resilience in the middle of a competitive division game.
The Kansas City Chiefs secured a 17-13 lead following a touchdown, while the Raiders previously held a 10-7 advantage after a field goal. Jalen Nailor exited the game after sustaining a hit from Nohl Williams, which prompted an unnecessary roughness penalty.
The players
Ashton Jeanty
He is a running back for the Las Vegas Raiders who previously dealt with an ankle injury during preseason practice.
Jalen Nailor
He is a wide receiver who was removed from the game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a concussion.
Nohl Williams
He is the defensive player who delivered the hit on Jalen Nailor that resulted in an unnecessary roughness penalty.
Trey Zuhn
He is a player who briefly left the game with a knee injury before eventually returning to the field.
The details
Ashton Jeanty was escorted off the field by an athletic trainer late in the third quarter before re-entering early in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, Jalen Nailor suffered his concussion after receiving a hit over the middle of the field during the first half.
Timeline
First half: Jalen Nailor left the game with a concussion.
Late third quarter: Ashton Jeanty left the game with an ankle injury.
Early fourth quarter: Ashton Jeanty returned to the game.
Season Trajectory
The accumulation of injuries during high-stakes divisional play forces teams to rely heavily on depth players, which can disrupt established rotation patterns. This game impacts the Raiders' offensive consistency and the immediate availability of key playmakers for upcoming weeks.
The loss of Jalen Nailor for the remainder of the game significantly alters the target distribution for the Raiders' passing attack. Meanwhile, the return of Ashton Jeanty to the rotation provides the team with its primary ground threat for the final quarter.
The takeaway
Maintaining player health through physical contact remains a primary challenge in high-intensity professional football. Coaches must weigh the immediate need for a player's return against the long-term risk of exacerbating existing injuries.
Further reading
For more information on team health and game recaps, visit the Football section.
