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‘Travis Etienne ‘Will Bust’: Jaguars RB Gets Reality Check on His NFL Situation
Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images

Travis Etienne faces a pivotal season in 2025 that could determine his future with the Jacksonville Jaguars. After a promising start to his career, the pressure is mounting for the running back to prove he can be a consistent contributor to the team. With a mix of injuries and competition for playing time, analysts are beginning to question whether he will live up to the expectations set when he was drafted.

Last season, Etienne struggled to maintain his position as the primary back, especially with the emergence of rookie Tank Bigsby. As Bigsby showcased his efficiency, Etienne’s role became less certain, leading to speculation about his long-term viability in Jacksonville. Given the stakes, this season represents a critical juncture for Etienne to demonstrate that he can reclaim his status as a key player.


Sep 15, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr (1) runs onto the field before a game against the Cleveland Browns at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

The Jaguars have made significant investments to bolster their roster, which raises the bar for all players, including Etienne. The team’s revamped offensive line and upgraded receiving corps are designed to support the running game, potentially opening up opportunities for him. However, if he continues to struggle with consistency, the franchise may look to other options in the upcoming draft or free agency.

Analysts have noted that if Etienne fails to produce this year, he could be labeled a bust, a term that carries heavy implications in the NFL. The league’s competitive nature often leaves little room for error, especially for players who have not fully realized their potential. Etienne’s performance in 2025 will be closely scrutinized, as the Jaguars assess their future direction.

CBS Sports’ NFL Analysis Says Jacksonville Jaguars’ Travis Etienne Will Be a Bust This 2025


Jacksonville Jaguars general manager Trent Baalke on the field with running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) before Saturday’s game. Jacksonville hosted the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at EverBank Stadium for the Jaguars second preseason game of the season Saturday, August 17, 2024. [Bob Self/Florida Times-Union]

Ettienne may face a lot of hurdles this 2025 and even end up as a bust. This is detailed more in an analysis by Cody Benjamin for CBS Sports.

As you can see, the Jaguars are on trial in 2025. Etienne arrived 24 picks after Lawrence back in 2021, and his career has been equally volatile. A foot injury wiped out his entire rookie campaign, and while he rebounded excellently with a multipurpose 2022 breakout (1,400-plus total yards), the former Clemson star has averaged just 3.75 yards per carry since then. Counterpart Tank Bigsby was far more efficient the last time both backs saw the field, hence plenty of trade rumors regarding Etienne ahead of a contract year.

Why he will bust: Opportunities figure to remain inconsistent with Bigsby in tow as a younger alternative.

As he prepares for the season, the pressure on Etienne is palpable. He must navigate expectations while working to improve his game and demonstrate his value to the team. The Jaguars’ success may hinge on his ability to perform at a high level and contribute significantly to their offensive strategy.


Jacksonville running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is introduced before an NFL football matchup Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Browns defeated the Jaguars 18-13. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]

Etienne’s future with the Jaguars is at a crossroads as the 2025 season approaches. With heightened expectations and fierce competition, he faces the challenge of proving himself once and for all. If he can rise to the occasion, he may secure his place in Jacksonville’s plans moving forward, but failure to do so could lead to a reassessment of his role within the franchise.


Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) celebrates a touchdown scored by running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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