Clemson Legend Travis Etienne Responds to Trade Buzz, Ranking Fallout

As new names emerged and others returned from injury, Etienne became one of several players who fell off the chart due to performance and team struggles.

He rushed for just 558 yards and two touchdowns last season, despite starting 15 games. Jacksonville ranked 26th in rushing offense, and the backfield became increasingly crowded late in the year.

Now, with the Jaguars turning the page under new head coach Liam Coen, Etienne’s role in the offense will be a key storyline heading into 2025. His versatility still makes him a valuable weapon in Coen’s system, which is built on movement, screens, and creating space for playmakers.

“He’s been getting me in a lot of space,” Etienne said of Coen. “He has a great feel for the game. It’s more about players than plays with Liam.”

While the offseason saw Jacksonville draft two running backs and rumors swirled about a potential Etienne trade, Coen shot them down emphatically, calling the speculation “absolutely inaccurate.” Etienne, playing on his fifth-year option, has responded with his trademark calm and grind.

“You’ve got to be where your feet are,” he said. “Wherever I’m at, I’m going to be good.”

That mindset helped make him one of the most electric players in Clemson history—and now, entering a contract year and fighting for his long-term role, it could power a major bounce-back season in the NFL.