Travis Etienne is making waves in New Orleans, not just for his skills on the field but also for setting the record straight on how to pronounce his last name. During his introductory press conference with the Saints, the running back shared the story behind the evolution of his name's pronunciation.
Growing up in Jennings, Louisiana, Etienne's last name was pronounced “Achan.” But things took a turn when he hit the college scene at Clemson.
Despite his efforts to teach coaches and media the correct way, it just didn’t stick. After a month of trying, Etienne decided to simplify things: “E-T-N, like you see it, is how you say it.”
This new pronunciation caught on quickly, making life easier for broadcasters and public address announcers. Etienne reflected on how this change made things smoother during his college years, eliminating the need for constant corrections.
However, Etienne is open to embracing his roots again. He’s learned more about the history of his name and is considering reverting to the original pronunciation. "I’m very much open to being Travis ‘Achane’ again," he shared, expressing a desire to reconnect with his identity.
Fans in New Orleans have already shown their support, with some joking that Etienne felt right at home after seeing how Saints fans embraced quarterback Tyler Shough's unique name.
Etienne's move to the Saints marks a homecoming of sorts, as he returns to Louisiana after starting his NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His new four-year, $52 million deal, reported by ESPN insider Adam Schefter, brings him back to familiar territory.
The Saints have been busy, announcing several free agency additions as the new NFL league year kicks off. Etienne, a first-round pick who made his mark at Clemson, is poised to make a significant impact in New Orleans. Fans are eager to see how his journey unfolds, both on and off the field.