Etienne continues to be an integral piece of the Jaguars’ long-term plans.
As the NFL offseason heats up, trade
rumors are swirling around Jacksonville
Jaguars running back Travis Etienne,
with the Dallas Cowboys emerging as a
potential landing spot. With Dallas
looking to bolster its backfield and
Jacksonville potentially exploring roster
moves, speculation continues to mount
regarding a possible deal between the
two teams.
Dallas Searching for a Dynamic Running Back.
The Cowboys have been seeking stability
in their ground game since parting ways
with Ezekiel Elliott before the 2023
season. While Tony Pollard stepped into
the lead role, his production did not meet
expectations, and Dallas struggled to
maintain a consistent rushing attack.
With Pollard set to hit free agency, the
Cowboys may be looking for a new
feature back to lead their offense.
Etienne, a former first-round pick out of
Clemson, has established himself as one
of the league’s most explosive young
running backs. Known for his speed,
elusiveness, and ability to contribute as
both a rusher and receiver, he would
provide the Cowboys with a versatile
weapon to elevate their offense.
Jacksonville’s Perspective: Would They Move Etienne?
While Etienne has been a key part of
Jacksonville’s offensive identity, the
Jaguars could entertain trade discussions
for several reasons. With a roster full of
young talent and ongoing salary cap
considerations, Jacksonville’s front office
might see an opportunity to gain
valuable draft capital or fill other
positional needs.
Additionally, the Jaguars recently added
depth at running back, which could
make them more open to a potential
deal. If the right offer comes along,
Jacksonville may be willing to part ways
with Etienne in exchange for assets that
could strengthen their team in other
areas.
How Etienne Fits in Dallas’ Offense.
If the Cowboys were to acquire Etienne,
he could immediately slot in as their
primary offensive weapon alongside
quarterback Dak Prescott. His ability to
break big plays and contribute in the
passing game would give Dallas an
explosive dimension they lacked last
season.
Under head coach Mike McCarthy, the
Cowboys have emphasized a more
balanced offensive approach, and adding
a dynamic runner like Etienne could
ease the pressure on Prescott. With a
strong offensive line and talented
playmakers like CeeDee Lamb in the
passing game, Dallas could become even
more dangerous with a top-tier running
back in the mix.
What Would a Trade Look Like?
If the Cowboys are serious about
acquiring Etienne, they would need to
present Jacksonville with a compelling
offer. Given Etienne’s age, production,
and potential, he would likely command
a significant trade package.
Potential trade scenarios could include a
combination of draft picks and possibly a
player to sweeten the deal. The Cowboys
hold valuable draft assets that could
entice Jacksonville, and they may be
willing to part with a mid-to-high-round
pick to secure a premier running back.
Alternatively, if the Jaguars are targeting
a specific position upgrade, Dallas could
include a player in the trade to make the
offer more appealing. A defensive player
or offensive lineman could be part of the
negotiations, depending on Jacksonville’s
needs.
Will the Cowboys Pull the Trigger?
At this point, the rumors remain just that
—speculation. However, with Dallas
looking to improve its rushing attack and
Jacksonville possibly open to making a
move, there is a logical path for
discussions to take place.
The Cowboys have been aggressive in
making roster upgrades in recent years,
and if they believe Etienne is the missing
piece to their Super Bowl aspirations,
they could push for a deal. On the other
hand, Jacksonville must determine
whether moving a rising star like Etienne
aligns with their long-term vision.
With the NFL offseason in full swing, all
eyes will be on Dallas and Jacksonville to
see if these trade rumors materialize into
actual negotiations—or if Etienne
remains a key part of the Jaguars’ future.
