Jacksonville Jaguars: Doug Pederson tells reporters Travis Etienne 'full-go' entering OTAs
Jaguars fans are all smiles, as Doug Pederson gave some positive news regarding former Clemson star running back Travis Etienne.
According to NFL Network, Pederson told reporters on Monday that the former first round pick is a full-go for all practice activity as Jacksonville ramps up their offseason activity.
“Jacksonville Jaguars coach Doug Pederson told reporters Monday that running back Travis Etienne (foot) is a full-go for all practice activity as the team begins its offseason program,” reported NFL Network. “Etienne missed his entire rookie season after suffering a Lisfranc injury in training camp.”
Last season, Etienne was amiss as he suffered a season-ending injury before his rookie season could ever get going. However, if there was ever a season to miss, last season was a solid choice. The Jaguars were miserable, as a dismal season was continually marred by controversy involving disgraced coach Urban Meyer.
Doug Pederson brings credibility and his Super Bowl ring to Jacksonville, where he’ll hope to build a foundation to win another involving Travis Etienne. Getting back on the field is the first step, now the former Clemson star will focus on getting back to himself.
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Continuing, the Jaguars ultimately went 3-14 season, which was the worst record in the league.
Jacksonville spent a lot of money during free agency, and with the amount of draft capital the team used, things could quickly improve next season. And that’s without even mentioning getting Travis Etienne back in the fold.
At Clemson, Etienne was a two-time 1,600-yard rusher, and he rushed for 4,952 yards with 70 touchdowns in his four-year collegiate career. He also had 102 career receptions, adding 1,155 yards and eight touchdowns through the air. Etienne made an impact in his limited preseason, and he was poised for a big role in the rushing and passing attacks as a rookie. Now, he will look to carve out a similar role when he takes the field in 2022.
James Robinson rushed for 767 yards and eight touchdowns last season, averaging 54.8 yards per game and 4.7 yards per carry. Carlos Hyde struggled as the main backup to Robinson, and didn’t play much of a role in the passing game. Etienne’s versatility should prove valuable to the Jaguars next season, and Jacksonville could end up being a fun team to watch if he re-finds his chemistry with Lawrence.