Last Thursday night, Travis Etienne Jr. of the Jacksonville Jaguars made his mark in team history with a spectacular 17-yard touchdown run against the New Orleans Saints. This touchdown, his second of the game, not only gave the Jaguars an eight-point lead in the first half but also made Etienne the first player in franchise history to rush for multiple touchdowns in three consecutive games.
Etienne, at just 24 years old, has been the driving force behind the Jaguars' offense this season. He has accounted for an impressive 41% of the team's touchdowns, 29% of their yards, and 41% of their touches. These numbers rank him among the top five players in the NFL in all three categories, according to ESPN Stats and Information.
Leading the NFL with 127 carries and 151 touches, Etienne has also proven himself on the field. He currently ranks fourth in rushing yards with 504 and fifth in yards from scrimmage with 700. If he continues at this pace, he is on track to surpass his numbers from last season.
Jaguars coach Doug Pederson has been impressed with Etienne's growth and development. While acknowledging that there is still room for improvement, Pederson praises Etienne's understanding of run schemes, fits, and holes. He describes him as a tough, young, and physical running back who can handle various positions on the field.
One significant improvement in Etienne's game this season has been his ball security. He has yet to fumble in the current season. Etienne emphasizes the importance of protecting the ball, acknowledging that turnovers can cost players their jobs. He has learned to prioritize ball security over fighting for extra yards.
Despite the team's intentions to lighten Etienne's workload by signing D'Ernest Johnson and drafting Tank Bigsby, Etienne's role has only grown larger. He has accounted for 74% of the running back carries, while Johnson and Bigsby have had limited opportunities and lower yards per touch averages. Etienne's consistency and effectiveness have made it hard for the Jaguars to keep him off the field.
Etienne's performance in the past three games has been exceptional. He has rushed for six touchdowns, surpassing his total from the entire 2022 season. His explosive plays, including 17-, 26-, and 35-yard rushing touchdowns, have contributed greatly to the Jaguars' success.
Looking ahead, Etienne remains focused on winning games rather than his individual workload. He understands the rarity of his record-setting streak and acknowledges the need to appreciate his accomplishments. As the Jaguars face the Pittsburgh Steelers and their struggling rush defense, Etienne has the opportunity to extend his streak and join the elite company of LaDainian Tomlinson, who achieved the feat in 2006.
After the Steelers game, the Jaguars will have a bye week before facing the San Francisco 49ers and their formidable rush defense. Etienne remains grateful for the opportunity to play in the NFL and is determined to continue making a positive impact on the field.
