Jaguars Must Avoid Overpaying for Star Running Back

Jacksonville should look for more cost-effective options at RB in free agency

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Jacksonville Jaguars are unlikely to spend big in free agency this offseason as they work to get their salary cap in order. However, there is one specific free agent scenario they should avoid - overpaying for star Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker. Despite Walker's impressive playoff performance and Super Bowl MVP award, the Jaguars have a capable young back in Bhayshul Tuten and should not break the bank to sign Walker, whose production is similar to their current starter Travis Etienne.

Why it matters

The Jaguars need to be prudent with their limited cap space and avoid getting into a bidding war for a running back, even one as talented as Kenneth Walker. With other pressing needs on the roster, overpaying for a position that is already well-stocked could hamstring the team's ability to improve in other areas.

The details

Walker is projected to command as much as $15 million per year on the open market after his stellar playoff run and Super Bowl MVP performance. However, the Jaguars already have a talented young running back in Bhayshul Tuten, who has shown promise when given opportunities. Signing Walker to a massive deal would be redundant and prevent the Jaguars from addressing other needs on the roster.

  • The 2023 NFL free agency period opens on March 15, 2023.

The players

Kenneth Walker

A running back for the Seattle Seahawks who is entering free agency after a standout 2025 season, including a Super Bowl MVP performance.

Bhayshul Tuten

A running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars who has shown promise in limited opportunities, making him a more cost-effective option than signing a high-priced free agent like Kenneth Walker.

Travis Etienne

The Jaguars' current starting running back who may depart in free agency, creating a need at the position.

James Gladstone

The general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars who will be tasked with navigating the team's free agency decisions this offseason.

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What’s next

The Jaguars will need to determine if they want to re-sign Travis Etienne or look to the free agent market to address their running back needs. If Etienne departs, they will have to decide whether to pursue a high-priced option like Kenneth Walker or look to develop Bhayshul Tuten as the lead back.

The takeaway

The Jaguars should avoid getting into a bidding war for Kenneth Walker or other top free agent running backs. With Bhayshul Tuten already on the roster and other roster needs to address, overpaying for a running back position that is already well-stocked would be an unwise use of their limited salary cap space.