Travis Etienne Projected to Chiefs in 2026 Free Agency

ESPN NFL expert Eric Moody predicted that running back Travis Etienne will sign with the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2026 NFL free agency period.

Etienne, a former Clemson star, has spent his first five professional seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who selected him 25th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. The 2025 campaign marked the final year of Etienne's rookie contract, as he played on his fifth-year option.

Moody's Analysis: A Versatile Fit for Kansas City

Moody stated Etienne would be an intriguing addition to the Chiefs, citing his versatility and consistent performance.

The prediction noted Etienne's ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver, which could significantly benefit a Chiefs backfield that averaged less than 4.0 yards per carry and lacked a running back with at least 200 receiving yards last season.

Etienne's Stellar Performance

Etienne has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in three of his four healthy seasons, accumulating 5,136 career all-purpose yards and 32 touchdowns.

In 2025, Etienne, 27, recorded 1,107 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, alongside 36 receptions for 292 yards and six touchdowns. He ranked 11th in the NFL in rushing yards and 17th in yards from scrimmage with 1,399, also achieving a career-high 13 total touchdowns.

Across 66 career NFL games from 2022-25 (missing his 2021 rookie season due to injury), Etienne has rushed for 3,798 yards and 25 touchdowns on 897 carries, alongside 168 receptions for 1,338 yards and seven scores.

Other Free Agency Speculations

Other analyses have also weighed in on Etienne's free agency. Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranked Etienne as the No. 15 overall player entering free agency, identifying the Arizona Cardinals as a potential landing spot. Fox Sports ranked him 20th among free agents, predicting he would sign with the New Orleans Saints.

2026 Free Agency Key Dates

The 2026 league year and free agency are scheduled to officially commence at 4 p.m. on March 11. Teams are permitted to begin negotiations during the league's legal tampering period, which opens at noon on March 9.