NFL Analysts Predict Landing Spots for Jaguars RB Travis Etienne

Several experts weigh in on where the free agent running back could end up next season.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 8:39am

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Several NFL analysts have speculated on potential landing spots for Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne, who is set to become a free agent this offseason. Experts from ESPN, Pro Football Network, FOX Sports, and Pro Football Focus have all suggested teams like the Chiefs, Texans, Saints, and Cardinals as potential suitors for Etienne's services.

Why it matters

Etienne is coming off a bounce-back season in 2025 where he rushed for over 1,000 yards, and his dual-threat ability as a runner and pass-catcher makes him an attractive free agent target. However, the Jaguars have also drafted some younger running back talent, so they may not prioritize re-signing Etienne with their limited salary cap space.

The details

Analysts believe Etienne could be a good fit in offenses like the Chiefs', Texans', Saints', and Cardinals' that emphasize outside zone running and getting playmakers the ball in space. Teams like the Chiefs and Saints in particular are seen as potential landing spots that could maximize Etienne's skill set.

  • Etienne is set to become a free agent in the 2026 NFL offseason.

The players

Travis Etienne

A running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars who is set to become a free agent in the 2026 offseason.

Bhayshul Tuten

A rookie running back drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2025.

LeQuint Allen

A rookie running back drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2025.

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.

C.J. Stroud

The quarterback for the Houston Texans.

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals.

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What they’re saying

“Keeping him will mean a nice raise — let's say $8 million a year — but the Jaguars were pleased with fourth-round rookie Bhayshul Tuten in limited use this past season. Using the franchise tag at $14.5 million seems too expensive at a position where there isn't much guaranteed money beyond the first year on many contracts.”

— Greg Auman, FOX Sports Analyst

“New head coach Mike LaFleur brings with him the experience of working under Sean McVay, and the diverse offensive philosophy that comes with it. Last season, the Rams ran the eighth-most outside runs in the NFL during the regular season, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Etienne would flourish in a scheme that systematically attacks the outside, evidenced by his 90.5 PFF rushing grade on outside runs since entering the league.”

— Mason Cameron, Pro Football Focus Analyst

What’s next

The Jaguars will need to decide whether to re-sign Etienne or let him test free agency, which could happen as soon as the start of the new league year in March.

The takeaway

Etienne's strong 2025 season has made him an attractive free agent target, with several analysts identifying teams like the Chiefs, Texans, Saints, and Cardinals as potential landing spots that could maximize his dual-threat abilities. However, the Jaguars may prioritize other positions with their limited salary cap space, leaving Etienne's future in Jacksonville uncertain.