Jaguars Face Tough Decision on Travis Etienne's $14.1M Contract

Impending free agent running back could command big payday after breakout season

Jan. 28, 2026 at 7:55am

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The Jacksonville Jaguars are facing a crucial offseason decision on whether to re-sign star running back Travis Etienne, who is set to become a free agent. ESPN's Michael DiRocco reports the Jaguars must decide if they are willing to pay Etienne over $10 million annually, which could be required to keep him, or potentially use the franchise tag on him at an estimated $14.1 million for one year.

Why it matters

Etienne was a key part of the Jaguars' success in 2025, helping the team win the AFC South division. Retaining him would provide continuity and stability in the backfield, but the Jaguars must weigh his value against the team's other young running back options and the overall salary cap implications.

The details

The Jaguars have a few options with Etienne's contract. They could use the franchise tag, which would keep him for one year at $14.1 million. Or they could try to sign him to a longer-term deal, which could require over $10 million per year based on recent running back contracts. The Jaguars also have two young running backs, Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen, who could potentially take on larger roles if Etienne departs.

  • The franchise tag for a running back in 2026 is estimated at $14.1 million.

The players

Travis Etienne

A talented running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars who is set to become a free agent after a breakout 2025 season.

Liam Coen

The head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who praised Etienne's fit and versatility in the team's offense.

Bhayshul Tuten

A rookie running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars who could potentially take on a larger role if Etienne departs.

LeQuint Allen

A rookie running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars who could potentially take on a larger role if Etienne departs.

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What they’re saying

“The Rams' Kyren Williams signed a contract in August that pays him $11 million annually, so it might take more than $10 million annually to get Etienne to return.”

— Michael DiRocco, ESPN reporter

What’s next

The Jaguars must decide by March 7 whether to use the franchise tag on Etienne, which would keep him for one year at $14.1 million.

The takeaway

The Jaguars face a difficult decision on Etienne's future, as retaining the talented running back could require a significant financial commitment. The team must weigh Etienne's value against their other young options and the overall salary cap implications, as they look to build on their division-winning 2025 season.