Travis Etienne's 2025 season was nothing short of spectacular for the Jacksonville Jaguars. With his third 1,000-yard season in just four years, Etienne proved he’s a force to be reckoned with. Now, as his contract with the Jaguars expires, rumors are swirling about the Kansas City Chiefs making a move to bring him on board.
According to reports, the Chiefs have a “legitimate interest” in Etienne, especially with the NFL Scouting Combine on the horizon. For Kansas City, securing a running back of Etienne’s caliber could transform a current vulnerability into a significant strength.
The buzz around Etienne potentially joining the Chiefs is palpable, though not without its skeptics. Some NFL fans question whether Etienne, despite his impressive stats, is worth the investment for Kansas City, particularly given their salary cap constraints. Names like Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III and New York Jets standout Breece Hall have been floated as potentially more dynamic options.
Critics have voiced concerns over the financial implications, noting the challenge of fitting a high-priced running back into a tight budget. The question of whether Etienne would accept less money to join a team with championship aspirations is also a hot topic.
Etienne’s journey to this point is remarkable. Drafted 25th overall by the Jaguars in 2021 after a stellar career at Clemson, he overcame a season-ending injury in his rookie year.
He bounced back in 2022 with over 1,400 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns. His breakout year came in 2023, where he not only rushed for 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns but also caught 58 passes for 476 yards and another touchdown, earning him a ninth-place finish in the Offensive Player of the Year voting.
While 2024 wasn’t his best, Etienne’s 2025 performance has reignited interest at the perfect time. As the Chiefs consider their options, Etienne’s potential impact on their offense could be a game-changer.