Travis Etienne Jr. is expected to leave the Jacksonville Jaguars during the upcoming free agency period following a strong 2025 NFL campaign in which he rushed 260 times for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns. At 27 years old, Etienne is entering what many consider the peak years for a running back, drawing attention from several teams including the Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, and Denver Broncos. As the Jaguars prepare to move on, they face a critical decision in selecting a replacement to maintain their offensive strength.
Potential Candidates to Replace Travis Etienne Jr. in Jacksonville
The Jaguars have several capable options to consider as they scan the free agent market for a reliable running back to fill the void left by Etienne. Presented below are five top candidates who could address Jacksonville’s needs while fitting into their offensive scheme.
Kenneth Walker III stands out as a premier free agent running back, fresh off a season that earned him a Super Bowl MVP title. His dynamic ability to lead a rushing attack makes him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their offense. Adding Walker could bring immediate impact to the Jaguars, helping them sustain their ground game with an explosive and proven talent.
2. Joe Mixon
After being released by the Houston Texans, Joe Mixon enters free agency with uncertainty following his missed 2025 season due to injury. The Texans’ acquisition of David Montgomery has diminished Mixon’s role, making him available for other teams like Jacksonville seeking a veteran presence at running back who has demonstrated productivity in previous seasons.
3. Aaron Jones
Aaron Jones recently became available when the Minnesota Vikings released him amid efforts to manage their salary cap. His experience and consistent output could offer the Jaguars a dependable and versatile backfield option, although competition for Jones may be fierce, with contenders such as the Kansas City Chiefs also eyeing his services.
Kenneth Gainwell contributed valuable depth for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the last season, showing reliability even if his statistics were modest. Jacksonville might unlock his potential by giving him a more featured role without the internal competition he faced previously. Gainwell’s ability to rise to key moments could fit well in the Jaguars’ evolving rushing attack.
Once a promising running back in the NFC, Rachaad White’s opportunities diminished with Bucky Irving’s emergence. At 27, White remains a youthful option with the possibility of revitalizing his career, especially if reuniting with offensive coordinator Liam Coen in Jacksonville, where familiarity could help him regain his form and contribute meaningfully.
Future Outlook for Jacksonville’s Running Game
The departure of Travis Etienne Jr. presents a significant challenge for the Jaguars, as the running back position is crucial to their offensive strategy. Selecting the right replacement could determine their offensive effectiveness and overall competitiveness in the coming seasons. Kenneth Walker III, with his recent accolades and demonstrated skill, emerges as a particularly compelling candidate amid the uncertain free agency landscape.
