The New Orleans Saints made a big splash in free agency when they signed Travis Etienne Jr. to pair with Alvin Kamara in the backfield. Etienne's addition probably means that the Saints won't select a back with an early choice in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, don't be surprised if the team adds another back with a later pick. If that's the case, Emmett Johnson of the Nebraska Cornhuskers could be someone on their radar.
Etienne will likely be the featured back, but Kamara's future beyond 2026 is in some doubt. Kamara turns 31 in July and is entering his 10th season with a big contract after already showing some possible decline. Behind them, Kendre Miller has proven he shouldn't be relied on and 2025 sixth round choice Devin Neal has flashed potential but remains unproven. The Saints may be wise to add more talent to their backfield with a middle or later round pick.
Recipient of the 2021 Minnesota Mr. Football award at Academy of Holy Angels High School, Johnson began with the Nebraska Cornhuskers as a three-star recruit. He'd take a redshirt in 2022 then rushed for 411 yards with 2 scores in 2023 as part of a backfield committee. In 2024, Johnson picked up 598 yards on the ground and caught 39 passes for 286 yards with 3 total scores.
By 2025, Johnson was the Cornhuskers featured weapon and exploded onto the national radar. Johnson's 1,451 rushing yards and 251 carries both led the Big Ten and were among the NCAA leaders. He also caught a team-high 46 passes and scored 15 touchdowns, as his 1,821 yards from scrimmage were second across the NCAA. Those eye-popping numbers earned him 1st Team All-American honors as well as the 2025 Big Ten Running Back of the Year.
Has trouble creating yards when the hole isn't there
Johnson's 2025 tape and production are worthy of a high pick, but teams looking for a featured back might be wary of his lack of power. Still, Johnson has a strong chance of being picked somewhere on the second day and shouldn't last later than the fourth round. His decisive one-cut and go style and receiving ability gives him a strong chance to be an instant contributor with an incredibly high upside of a potential starter.
New Orleans has had success with late-round picks and undrafted players at running back. Emmett Johnson won't last that long. But, if Johnson slips into Day 3, the Saints could be tempted to add him and bolster their backfield in multiple ways.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 09: Travis Etienne #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars celebrates his rushing touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half in the game at NRG Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 09: Travis Etienne Jr. #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars looks on before the snap during the NFL 2025 game between Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Houston, Texas."" (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 04: Travis Etienne Jr. #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars takes the field prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 04: Travis Etienne Jr. #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars takes the field prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 11: Head coach Liam Coen of the Jacksonville Jaguars congratulates Travis Etienne Jr. #1 after a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at EverBank Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is introduced before an NFL football matchup Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Browns defeated the Jaguars 18-13. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Dec 29, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr (1) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the third quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn ImagesDec 29, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) looks on during the second mandatory minicamp at Miller Electric Center Wednesday, June 11, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla.Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) hauls in a reception during an NFL training camp session at the Miller Electric Center, Friday, July 25, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs the ball during an NFL training camp session at the Miller Electric Center, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) talks to members of the media after an NFL training camp session at the Miller Electric Center, Friday Aug. 15, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Aug 17, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) leaps to avoid the tackle of New Orleans Saints defensive end Chris Rumph II (98) during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) hands off to Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1), left, and brother Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne (23), right, hold up signed game jerseys they exchanged jafter the game of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Panthers 26-10. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1), left wrote a message to his brother Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne (23) before exchanging their jerseys after the game between the Carolina Panthers at Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium Sunday September 7, 2025. Jaguars defeated the Panthers 26-10. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1), left and his brother Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne (23) exchanged jerseys after the game between the Carolina Panthers at Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium Sunday September 7, 2025. Jaguars defeated the Panthers 26-10. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Sep 14, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Brenton Strange (85) reacts after running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown in the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn ImagesSep 14, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn ImagesSep 28, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn ImagesOct 12, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn ImagesOct 12, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) runs the ball during the first half against the Seattle Seahawks at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) finds a hole during the second quarter in an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) rushes for yards against Seattle Seahawks cornerback Shaquill Griffin (24) and linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (7) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Seahawks defeated the Jaguars 20-12.Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) and Seattle Seahawks cornerback Shaquill Griffin (24) talk after the game of an NFL football matchup, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Seahawks defeated the Jaguars 20-12.Nov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) hands off to running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) during the first half against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn ImagesNov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs for a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn ImagesNov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is hugged by quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) after scoring a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn ImagesNov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn ImagesNov 16, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers \d4q at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter to make it 35-6 in an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, November 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Chargers 35-6. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Nov 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesNov 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter to make it 35-6 in an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, November 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Chargers 35-6.Nov 30, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) warms up prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is introduced before an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Colts 36-19.Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against New York Jets safety Malachi Moore (27) during the third quarter of a NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Jets 48-20. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Dec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) and running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) warm up before a game against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn ImagesDec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn ImagesDec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) makes a catch during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn ImagesIndianapolis Colts defensive end Samson Ebukam (52) and Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Neville Gallimore (92) bring down Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, during a game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.Indianapolis Colts defenders bring down Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, during a game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.Indianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II (23) looks to bring down Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, during a game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.Jan 4, 2026; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs with the ball against the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Travis Register-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) drives through a hole during the second quarter in an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tripped up by by Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs while throwing an arm up on Tennessee Titans cornerback Micah Robinson (21) during the fourth quarter in an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7 [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) leaps to score a rushing touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Jets 48-20.Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) leaps into the end zone for a fourth quarter touchdown during an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Jets 48-20.Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) jukes against Tennessee Titans safety Sanoussi Kane (42) during the first quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7, capturing the AFC South title. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union](EDITOR’S NOTE: A tilt lens was used to create this image.) Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is introduced before an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7, capturing the AFC South title. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jan 11, 2026; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown during the second half against the Buffalo Bills in an AFC Wild Card Round game at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn ImagesJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) during the second quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) walks off the field after losing to the Bills during an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. Bills lead 10-7 at the half over the Jaguars. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter in an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. Bills lead 10-7 at the half over the Jaguars. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against Buffalo Bills cornerback Christian Benford (47) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) reacts to his first down pickup during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tackled by Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel (1) and safety Jordan Poyer (21) during the second quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tackled by Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) during the second quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the first quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) fakes the hands off to running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against Buffalo Bills linebacker Dorian Williams (42) during the first quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tackled by Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'davious White (27) during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24.1 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backHOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 09: Travis Etienne #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars celebrates his rushing touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half in the game at NRG Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)1 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backHOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 09: Travis Etienne #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars celebrates his rushing touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half in the game at NRG Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)2 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backHOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 09: Travis Etienne Jr. #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars looks on before the snap during the NFL 2025 game between Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Houston, Texas."" (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)3 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 04: Travis Etienne Jr. #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars takes the field prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)4 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 04: Travis Etienne Jr. #1 of the Jacksonville Jaguars takes the field prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)5 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 11: Head coach Liam Coen of the Jacksonville Jaguars congratulates Travis Etienne Jr. #1 after a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at EverBank Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)6 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is introduced before an NFL football matchup Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Browns defeated the Jaguars 18-13. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]7 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backDec 29, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr (1) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the third quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images8 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backDec 29, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images9 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) looks on during the second mandatory minicamp at Miller Electric Center Wednesday, June 11, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla.10 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) hauls in a reception during an NFL training camp session at the Miller Electric Center, Friday, July 25, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]11 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs the ball during an NFL training camp session at the Miller Electric Center, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]12 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) talks to members of the media after an NFL training camp session at the Miller Electric Center, Friday Aug. 15, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]13 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backAug 17, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) leaps to avoid the tackle of New Orleans Saints defensive end Chris Rumph II (98) during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images14 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) hands off to Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]15 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1), left, and brother Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne (23), right, hold up signed game jerseys they exchanged jafter the game of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Panthers 26-10. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]16 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1), left wrote a message to his brother Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne (23) before exchanging their jerseys after the game between the Carolina Panthers at Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium Sunday September 7, 2025. Jaguars defeated the Panthers 26-10. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]17 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1), left and his brother Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne (23) exchanged jerseys after the game between the Carolina Panthers at Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium Sunday September 7, 2025. Jaguars defeated the Panthers 26-10. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]18 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backSep 14, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Brenton Strange (85) reacts after running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown in the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images19 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backSep 14, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images20 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backSep 28, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images21 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backOct 12, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images22 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backOct 12, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) runs the ball during the first half against the Seattle Seahawks at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images23 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) finds a hole during the second quarter in an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]24 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) rushes for yards against Seattle Seahawks cornerback Shaquill Griffin (24) and linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (7) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Seahawks defeated the Jaguars 20-12.25 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne (1) and Seattle Seahawks cornerback Shaquill Griffin (24) talk after the game of an NFL football matchup, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Seahawks defeated the Jaguars 20-12.26 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) hands off to running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) during the first half against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images27 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs for a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images28 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is hugged by quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) after scoring a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images29 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 9, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images30 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 16, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers \d4q at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images31 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter to make it 35-6 in an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, November 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Chargers 35-6. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]32 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images33 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images34 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter to make it 35-6 in an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, November 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Chargers 35-6.35 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backNov 30, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) warms up prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images36 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is introduced before an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Colts 36-19.37 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against New York Jets safety Malachi Moore (27) during the third quarter of a NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Jets 48-20. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]38 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backDec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) and running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) warm up before a game against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images39 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backDec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images40 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backDec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) makes a catch during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images41 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backIndianapolis Colts defensive end Samson Ebukam (52) and Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Neville Gallimore (92) bring down Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, during a game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.42 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backIndianapolis Colts defenders bring down Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, during a game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.43 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backIndianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II (23) looks to bring down Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, during a game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.44 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJan 4, 2026; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs with the ball against the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Travis Register-Imagn Images45 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) drives through a hole during the second quarter in an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]46 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tripped up by by Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]47 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs while throwing an arm up on Tennessee Titans cornerback Micah Robinson (21) during the fourth quarter in an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7 [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]48 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) leaps to score a rushing touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Jets 48-20.49 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) leaps into the end zone for a fourth quarter touchdown during an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Jets 48-20.50 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) jukes against Tennessee Titans safety Sanoussi Kane (42) during the first quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7, capturing the AFC South title. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]51 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running back(EDITOR’S NOTE: A tilt lens was used to create this image.) Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is introduced before an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7, capturing the AFC South title. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]52 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJan 11, 2026; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown during the second half against the Buffalo Bills in an AFC Wild Card Round game at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images53 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) during the second quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]54 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) walks off the field after losing to the Bills during an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. Bills lead 10-7 at the half over the Jaguars. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]55 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter in an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. Bills lead 10-7 at the half over the Jaguars. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]56 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]57 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]58 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against Buffalo Bills cornerback Christian Benford (47) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]59 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) reacts to his first down pickup during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]60 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tackled by Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel (1) and safety Jordan Poyer (21) during the second quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]61 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tackled by Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) during the second quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]62 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the first quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]63 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) fakes the hands off to running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]64 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards against Buffalo Bills linebacker Dorian Williams (42) during the first quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]65 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) is tackled by Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'davious White (27) during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]66 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the third quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]67 / 67Saints to sign Travis Etienne Jr.: See New Orleans' new running backJacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24.This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Nebraska Cornhuskers RB Emmett Johnson scouting report