The Las Vegas Raiders have added depth to their backfield ahead of Sunday's Week 5 road matchup against the New England Patriots as starting running back Ashton Jeanty deals with foot and ankle injuries.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday via X, formerly known as Twitter, that Las Vegas elevated rookie running back Roman Hemby from its practice squad.
“With Ashton Jeanty questionable because of foot and ankle injuries, the #Raiders elevated RB Roman Hemby,” Rapoport wrote.
Jeanty, the No. 6 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, has started all four games this season, recording 264 rushing yards on 78 carries while adding 19 receptions for 165 yards and two touchdowns.
The 22-year-old was a full participant in Wednesday's practice before being limited Thursday and sitting out Friday, raising concerns about his availability against New England.
Roman Hemby provides Raiders with additional backfield depth
Hemby joined Las Vegas as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL Draft after finishing his collegiate career at Indiana.
The 24-year-old appeared in all three preseason games, totaling 38 rushing yards on 11 carries while adding three receptions for 22 yards.
During his final collegiate season at Indiana, Hemby rushed for 864 yards and six touchdowns on 163 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per attempt.
Article Continues BelowHis elevation gives the Raiders another option alongside rookie Mike Washington Jr., who has recorded 120 rushing yards and one touchdown through four games.
Las Vegas (3-1) enters Sunday's matchup looking to bounce back from its 30-27 Week 4 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Raiders will face the Patriots (2-2) at 10 a.m. PT on CBS, with Jeanty's availability remaining uncertain.

