May 17, 2025

As a first-round draft pick in 2021, Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. came into the NFL with high expectations. And despite a Lisfranc injury that caused him to miss his rookie season, he appeared set to meet them. However, following an excellent 2022, Etienne has seen his efficiency decline and his backfield competition increase. Etienne played all 17 games in 2023 and received the lion's share of the carries, but averaged just 3.8 yards per carry and sputtered down the stretch. In 2024, things were even worse - Etienne was out-touched by backup Tank Bigsby, who was also the more effective of the two. Overall, the former first-round pick had 558 yards and two touchdowns over 150 rushing attempts while catching 39 passes for 254 yards over 15 games. The 26-year-old also missed time last year due to a hamstring injury. On top of that, Etienne and Bigsby will have to compete with fourth-round rookie Bhayshul Tuten. The Jaguars appear set on having a committee approach at the running back position, which could spell doom for Etienne's RB1 days in fantasy football. Even if his efficiency improves back to 2022 levels, Bigsby and Tuten will eat into his touches on early downs. While this may benefit Etienne on third downs, his lack of clear opportunity means you should stay away. He is currently RB35 in the latest RotoBaller running back rankings.--Joey Sheiner