As we look ahead to the 2026 NFL offseason, the running back carousel could be spinning fast-and several teams are eyeing a seat. The Dallas Cowboys, Seattle Seahawks, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars all find themselves with questions in the backfield, and Travis Etienne might just be the name at the center of it all.
Let’s start with the obvious: Etienne is coming off a strong bounce-back season. After a disappointing 2024 campaign that had some wondering if his best football was already behind him, the former first-rounder proved he’s still got plenty in the tank.
He racked up 1,107 rushing yards, added 292 through the air, and found the end zone 13 times. That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed-especially when teams are looking for versatility out of the backfield.
Etienne’s current team, the Jaguars, would love to keep him around. His chemistry with quarterback Trevor Lawrence dates back to their Clemson days, and that connection has translated well to the NFL.
But there’s a catch: Jacksonville is currently $21 million over the salary cap. That kind of financial strain forces tough decisions, and running back is often a position where teams try to save.
The Jags could opt to roll with Bhayshul Tuten, a fourth-round pick from last year, if they decide Etienne’s price tag-projected at two years, $13.6 million-is too steep.
That opens the door for other suitors, and Seattle is one of the most intriguing options. Kenneth Walker had a solid season, but he’s also a pending free agent.
If his market value climbs beyond what the Seahawks are comfortable paying, Etienne could be a natural replacement. He offers a similar burst on the ground but brings more upside as a pass catcher-something that could help diversify Seattle’s offense.
And with ample cap space, Seattle has the financial flexibility to make a competitive offer.
Houston is another team to watch closely. Joe Mixon missed all of last season with a foot injury, and the writing appears to be on the wall for his exit.
That would leave Woody Marks and Jawhar Jordan as the top backs on the roster-solid depth pieces, but not the kind of talent you build a playoff-caliber backfield around. The Texans are in win-now mode, and Etienne fits the mold of a veteran who can elevate an already explosive offense.
Don’t be surprised if Houston makes a strong push.
As for Dallas, Javonte Williams had a strong year and appears likely to return. That continuity could take the Cowboys out of the Etienne sweepstakes unless something changes late in the process. But if talks stall or Williams ends up walking, Dallas would be wise to at least kick the tires on Etienne.
Right now, the Jaguars still feel like the frontrunner-if they can find a way to make the numbers work. But the Texans are lurking, and their need might be just as urgent.
Seattle remains a wild card depending on how they handle Walker’s contract situation. And Dallas?
They’re in a wait-and-see mode.
One thing’s for sure: Etienne has rebuilt his value, and he’s going to have options. Whether he stays in Jacksonville or finds a new home, he’s poised to be one of the most sought-after running backs on the market this offseason.