Cowboys are eyeing in-demand RB Travis Etienne amid Jaguars’ turmoil

After the Jaguars’ disappointing 0-3 start, the Dallas Cowboys are considering a possible trade for running back Travis Etienne from the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Cowboys struggled with just 3.6 yards per rush attempt, while both Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott failed to impress with their average yards per carry. Given Etienne’s impressive production – he finished 8th in Offensive Player of the Year voting last year and racked up 1,484 total yards in 2023 – he could provide the explosive playmaking the Cowboys are missing. Should Jacksonville begin revamping its roster, Dallas could find an opportunity to sign him.

Through the numbers

• The Jacksonville Jaguars are currently 0-3 after a heavy 47-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
• Cowboys are averaging 3.6 yards per rush attempt, Dowdle is averaging 3.8 and Elliott is averaging just 3.3 yards per carry.

Yes but

While acquiring Etienne is an attractive option, the Cowboys must consider his increased salary cap hit, which will increase significantly from $2.42 million to $6.14 million in 2025. This could complicate efforts to fit him into their budget, especially after owner Jerry Jones’ comments about financial constraints regarding other potential free agent acquisitions.

state of affairs

• The Cowboys are expecting their running backs to improve after a lackluster start to the season.
• Etienne’s role in Jacksonville is uncertain, especially if trade talks arise amid their struggles.

What’s next?

If the Jaguars continue to falter, a trade involving Etienne could become more likely, making him a prime target for the Cowboys looking to bolster their offensive capabilities. This potential trade could happen before midseason if both teams see favorable terms.

Conclusion

Travis Etienne represents a promising solution to the Cowboys’ running game woes, but management must contend with the financial implications of such a move. Monitoring the Jaguars’ season performance will be crucial to potential trade talks that could have a significant impact on Dallas’ playoff ambitions.