Positive Update on Jacksonville Jaguars Running Back

The Jacksonville Jaguars can breathe a sigh of relief. According to head coach Doug Pederson, running back Travis Etienne was cleared to return in Week 12's iconic 28-27 win over the Baltimore Ravens, but the team elected to play it safe with their young star.

Jaguars HC Doug Pederson said RB Travis Etienne was cleared to return to the game yesterday with his foot injury but he decided to hold him out not to risk it. They were planning to do more tests but Etienne said he was fine and team thought so too. Good news.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) November 28, 2022

Etienne suffered what appeared to be a foot injury five snaps into Sunday's game. Despite his desire to return to the lineup, the Jaguars decided they preferred not to risk the back's health before they had more information. Etienne missed the entirety of his 2021 rookie season due to a foot injury.

The Jaguars were right not to take chances with Etienne's long-term prospects. The second-year back has been sensational this season, averaging an excellent 5.5 yards per rush on the ground and an efficient 6.5 yards per target through the air. His health in future seasons will likely mean a lot more than his availability this year. At 4-7, the Jags will have a tough time making the playoffs this season.

Etienne joined the Jaguars as their 25th overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, the same year the team took fellow Clemson star Trevor Lawrence first overall. The two formed a dominant pair for the Tigers, leading their team to consecutive College Football Championship game appearances including a win in 2018. The Jaguars acquired them hoping to extend their success and chemistry into the pros.