The New Orleans Saints need to find a way to bolster their running game that's been lackluster recently. One way to do it is to make a splash at running back. It's one of the biggest reasons they've been a team constantly thrown around Travis Etienne during the offseason. Most recently connected by Patrick McAvoy of Sports Illustrated, the former Jacksonville Jaguar would be a good fit in New Orleans.
McAvoy says Etienne would work well with Alvin Kamara. "Etienne is a dual-threat back who would complement Kamara well. Then, if the longtime Saints star opted to hang up his cleats after the 2026 season, New Orleans would be covered for years to come," He says. "It's going to be an intriguing situation to monitor."
It's that potential compatibility with the Saints star that would make it a worthwhile signing. Etienne, like Kamara, has shown the versatility to be an effective back in not just the running game but the passing as well, gathering over 1,300 scrimmage yards in three of the past four seasons.
The Saints may need to win a bidding war if they want Travis Etienne
If the Saints really do want Travis Etienne, they'll have to be light on their feet and be prepared with heavy pockets. Etienne will be one of the best running backs on for a possible bidding war. They aren't the only team that are interested, with other suitors including the Kansas City Chiefs and the Denver Broncos.
That makes the Saints' recent cap clearing, where they freed up over $30 million, giving them $19.9 million of space, even more crucial. Currently, Etienne's expected average annual value is $6.8 million. Javonte Williams got $8 million per year, so expect Etienne's contract to match or surpass that. Both are well within the Saints' budget right now, but the number is likely to climb if there are multiple other teams involved.
Thankfully, the Saints have one advantage over the other teams that might be interested in the former Jaguar. Etienne was born and raised in Louisiana and is very familiar with the city of New Orleans. He's also long admitted that he's always wanted to play in the Superdome, a chance that Etienne's seldom had in his football career. If the Saints are smart, they can use that to their advantage.