The Jaguars may not see a resurgence in their running game with Travis Etienne at the helm.
After being drafted in the first round back in 2021, the former Clemson standout has put up respectable numbers over his first two seasons, amassing over 1,000 rushing yards and nearly 1,500 total scrimmage yards each year.
Interestingly, back in third grade, Etienne only made a small impact, rushing for under 600 yards and scoring just two touchdowns.
Now, with new head coach Liam Cohen and general manager James Gladstone at the helm, expectations for the 26-year-old running back seem low.
Upon stepping into his role in February, Gladstone quickly added Virginia Tech’s Beischulzuten in the fourth round of the draft, indicating a lack of confidence in Etienne. This aligns with a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler suggesting that the new regime isn’t placing high expectations on him.
Fowler also noted that Tank Bigsby is facing issues with fumbling, suggesting that the competition for the lead back role is wide open, especially after Bigsby struggled with four fumbles last season.
It’s anticipated that Jacksonville will adopt a committee approach to the running back position, allowing one of the three backs the opportunity to emerge as the clear starter.
Despite challenges on the ground, Etienne has stepped up his receiving game, racking up 254 yards through the air, while Bigsby managed only 54.
Coming off a dismal 4-13 season, the new management is taking a cautious approach with all players as they work to establish their roster.
The Jaguars also made a significant move in the 2025 NFL Draft by acquiring Travis Hunter, a versatile player from Colorado. He’s expected to make a substantial impact on both offense and defense in his rookie year, complementing a passing game led by Trevor Lawrence.
