2 Raiders rookies among biggest standouts from joint practice with 49ers
The Las Vegas Raiders took part in a joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday and two of the team's rookies were among the biggest standouts.
According to Levi Edwards of Raiders.com, wide receiver Dont'e Thornton "won the majority of his matchups against the 49ers cornerbacks" during one-on-one drills, with his highlight being "an impressive high-point grab."
Edwards also noted that running back Ashton Jeanty broke off a "big run nearly untouched" during a team period.
"To see that from a rookie player, like he learns and he grows with every single experience," quarterback Geno Smith said of Jeanty. "I think that's something that's going to make him so much of a great player, because he's getting better by day. And so, I thought Ashton did a great job as always, but he definitely took another step and another jump today."
But that wasn't the only big play Jeanty had.
"Jeanty broke off multiple explosive runs and was consistently effective throughout the joint practice, according to various reports," Justin Melo of Raiders Wire wrote.
When it comes to veterans who shined, wide receiver Jakobi Meyers and star edge rusher Maxx Crosby were named by Edwards. Tight end Brock Bowers scored twice to make his mark.
The performances from Jeanty and Thornton are particularly notable after the pair of rookies struggled in the preseason Week 1 game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Thornton did catch one ball for 17 yards, but he also had a drop on the opening series. Meanwhile, Jeanty finished with -1 yards on three carries, although the offensive line was the issue there, as the No. 6 overall pick had no room to run.
Both players will look to rebound on Saturday afternoon, when the Raiders host the 49ers at Allegiant Stadium in preseason Week 2.
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