No. 6 pick Ashton Jeanty is changing his backfield stance at Chip Kelly’s request, shifting from his upright “Michael Myers” posture to a more athletic basketball-like crouch — for now.
Ashton Jeanty, the No. 6 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, is wasting no time making waves in Las Vegas — both for his explosive skill set and a unique tweak to his playing stance.
The former Boise State star, known as a triple-threat for his elite rushing, blocking, and receiving abilities, is adapting to the pros under the guidance of Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. And that includes changing his signature upright backfield stance, which became a bit of a trademark during his incredible 2023 college season.
Chip Kelly’s Hoops-Inspired Advice
In an interview with Kay Adams during the NFLPA Rookie Premiere, Jeanty revealed a memorable exchange with Kelly at his first Raiders mini-camp.
“Chip Kelly comes up to me the first day… He was like, ‘Have you ever played basketball?’ Yeah, I’ve played basketball. I can dunk, all that,” Jeanty said.
“He was like, ‘Show me how you can guard me?’ He’s holding the ball and then he’s like, ‘That’s exactly why you’ve got to be down in your running back stance.’”
The point? Kelly wants Jeanty to get lower, ready to explode off the line like a defender in basketball. It’s a major shift from Jeanty’s upright, almost statuesque stance — a posture that had people comparing him to Michael Myers. Jeanty even leaned into the comparison with a Halloween costume post on Instagram last year.
Why the Stance Matters
Jeanty says that upright stance worked for him at Boise State, helping him stay relaxed and loose before unleashing his power after the snap. And it’s hard to argue with the results:
- 2,601 rushing yards
- 29 touchdowns
- Maxwell Award winner
- First-team All-American
- Heisman Trophy runner-up
But in the NFL, with defenders faster and more physical, Kelly believes a lower stance will help Jeanty adapt quicker and stay ready for everything the pro game throws at him.
A Temporary Change?
While Jeanty is taking the coaching in stride, he made it clear this might not be permanent.
“He won for now. I’m going to try and persuade him one day,” Jeanty said.
“I’ve got to earn my stripes, make some plays first. But I don’t think it’s going to be the end.”
In other words, if Jeanty delivers on the field, don’t be surprised if “Michael Myers mode” makes a return.
For now, though, it’s all about fitting in, proving himself, and adjusting to the next level — one stance at a time.
Related Articles:
Packers’ Jaire Alexander Drawing Trade Buzz, Chargers Named as Potential Landing Spot
For more NFL News