Saints RB Travis Etienne Jr.'s Name Mispronounced for Years

Etienne reveals his last name is pronounced "Ay-Chan," not "Eee-Tee-En"

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:36pm

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New Orleans Saints running back Travis Etienne Jr. has revealed that his last name has been mispronounced for years, both in college and the NFL. Etienne says his name is actually pronounced "Ay-Chan," not "Eee-Tee-En" as it has commonly been said.

Why it matters

This is a surprising revelation about one of the NFL's rising young stars, as players' names are an important part of their identity. Etienne's announcement also highlights how even well-known athletes can have their names mispronounced for years, underscoring the importance of getting names right.

The details

Etienne says that growing up, his name was pronounced "Ay-Chan," but when he went to college, he tried to correct people for weeks, only for them to keep saying "Eee-Tee-En." He eventually just gave up and let the mispronunciation stick. Now, as he joins the Saints, Etienne is setting the record straight on how his name should be said.

  • Etienne revealed the proper pronunciation of his name at his introductory press conference with the Saints on March 13, 2026.

The players

Travis Etienne Jr.

The new starting running back for the New Orleans Saints, who is returning home to Louisiana after being mispronounced as "Eee-Tee-En" for his entire college and NFL career.

Alvin Kamara

The previous starting running back for the Saints, whom Etienne is expected to replace as the lead back in New Orleans.

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What they’re saying

“Growing up, it was Travis 'Ay-Chan,' so it was 'Achane,' so that's how you always say 'Travis Etienne'”

— Travis Etienne Jr., New Orleans Saints Running Back (New Orleans Saints)

What’s next

Etienne will look to make a strong impression with the Saints in his first season, as he takes over as the team's lead running back.

The takeaway

This story serves as a reminder that even well-known athletes can have their names mispronounced for years, underscoring the importance of getting names right and respecting people's identities. Etienne's revelation also adds an interesting personal note to his homecoming with the Saints.