In a move that’s already rippling through the NFL like a seismic event, the Dallas Cowboys have emerged as the frontrunners to land Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne in free agency. As the dust settles on the 2025 season, this potential blockbuster acquisition could redefine the Cowboys’ backfield and send a clear message to the rest of the league: America’s Team is reloading for a Super Bowl run in 2026.
The Cowboys’ running back situation has been a revolving door since the departure of Ezekiel Elliott in 2022. After a breakout 2025 campaign from Javonte Williams, who powered Dallas to a strong playoff push, the team faces the harsh reality of free agency. Williams is poised for a massive payday, one that might price him out of Jerry Jones’ budget. Enter Travis Etienne—a dynamic, first-round talent whose explosive playmaking could be the perfect fit for a Cowboys offense desperate for stability and star power.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay didn’t mince words in pegging Dallas as the ideal landing spot for Etienne. “Etienne would be a sensible choice for a Cowboys team that should be feeling desperate for some backfield stability,” Kay wrote. “The team hasn’t fielded the same Week 1 starter in consecutive years since Ezekiel Elliott departed for the first time in 2022, but Etienne could fill that void and hold down Dallas’ RB1 job for the next few years.”
Kay’s analysis hits the nail on the head. Upgrading to a more talented, versatile back like Etienne could elevate Dallas to the very top of the league in rushing, taking pressure off quarterback Dak Prescott to shoulder the offensive load in 2026. Prescott, fresh off another Pro Bowl season, has carried the Cowboys’ offense on his back for years. Pairing him with Etienne’s dual-threat capabilities—rushing prowess combined with receiving skills out of the backfield—could create a balanced attack reminiscent of the Cowboys’ glory days.
Etienne’s resume speaks for itself. The former Clemson standout, selected 25th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, has been a consistent force in Jacksonville. In 2025, he racked up 1,107 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, marking his third 1,000-yard season in four years. His speed, vision, and ability to break tackles make him a nightmare for defenses, and at just 27 years old, he’s entering his prime with plenty of tread left on the tires.
But the Jaguars’ playoff exit against the Buffalo Bills might have signaled the end of Etienne’s tenure in Duval County. When pressed about his future post-game, Etienne kept it cryptic: “I’m really not even focused on that right now, honestly. Not even focused on that. Really just gotta just try to soak this one in, man. It’d be crazy if I did [play my last game as a Jaguar], though.”
Sources close to the situation indicate that Jacksonville’s front office is eyeing a rebuild, potentially letting Etienne walk to free up cap space for younger talent. For the Cowboys, this represents a golden opportunity. With over $50 million in projected cap space heading into the 2026 offseason, Dallas can afford to make a splash. A multi-year deal for Etienne—potentially in the $12-15 million annual range—would not only stabilize the backfield but also inject youth and athleticism into an aging roster.
The league-wide implications are massive. If Etienne touches down in Dallas, it could shift the balance of power in the NFC East. The Philadelphia Eagles, with their vaunted defensive line, would face a renewed rushing threat. The New York Giants and Washington Commanders, already rebuilding, might find themselves further outmatched. And don’t forget the ripple effects across the conference: teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions, who pride themselves on ground-and-pound football, would suddenly have a new contender nipping at their heels.
Critics might argue that the Cowboys are repeating past mistakes by chasing high-profile free agents, but Etienne isn’t just a name—he’s a proven producer. Unlike previous signings that fizzled, his fit in Mike McCarthy’s scheme is seamless. Imagine Etienne slashing through defenses behind an offensive line anchored by Tyler Smith and Zack Martin, with CeeDee Lamb drawing coverage deep. It’s a recipe for offensive fireworks.
As free agency looms in March 2026, all eyes are on Dallas. Will Jerry Jones pull the trigger on this shock wave signing? If he does, the NFL had better brace itself. The Cowboys aren’t just building a team—they’re sending an alert: the star is shining brighter than ever, and the league is on notice.
