Packers Linked to Potential $6.8 Million Future Josh Jacobs Replacement: Travis Etienne Jr.

The Green Bay Packers are facing a crucial offseason with several decisions ahead, particularly when it comes to their running back situation. While Josh Jacobs is under contract for two more seasons, rumors suggest that the team may be exploring long-term replacements for him, given concerns about his performance in 2025.

Jacobs, who has been a reliable workhorse for the Packers, showed signs of slowing down last season. Although Green Bay is not ready to part ways with him, the team could look for a future successor to share the load and eventually take over. Enter Travis Etienne Jr., a 27-year-old free agent who could fit perfectly into the Packers’ plans for both the short and long term.

Jacobs’ Future with the Packers

Josh Jacobs is entering the 2026 season with two years remaining on his contract. While he still has value to the Packers, his decline in performance last year raised some concerns. He’s certainly capable of contributing to the team in the short term, but Green Bay might start thinking about the future, especially as the running back position tends to age quickly.

In addition to Jacobs, Chris Brooks was re-signed by Green Bay, and the team chose to non-tender Emmanuel Wilson, further indicating their approach to restructuring the running back room. The Packers have also shown interest in the running back market, suggesting they’re considering additional options, including replacements for Jacobs in the near future.

Travis Etienne Jr. as a Potential Fit for Green Bay

Travis Etienne Jr., a 2021 first-round pick, has proven to be a solid running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars over the past four seasons. Despite missing his rookie season due to injury, Etienne has shown consistent production since returning to the field. In 2025, he rushed for 1,107 yards, marking his third 1,000-yard season, and averaged 4.3 yards per carry. His ability to contribute both in the running game and as a pass-catcher makes him an intriguing option for the Packers.

Etienne’s stats over his four seasons include 3,798 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns, with a career average of 4.2 yards per carry. He has also caught 168 passes for 1,338 yards and seven touchdowns. This dual-threat ability as both a runner and receiver would complement Jacobs’ style of play, giving the Packers a versatile option.

Etienne’s Contract Projections and Impact

Spotrac projects Travis Etienne Jr. to command a contract worth around $6.8 million per season, which could fit within Green Bay’s cap space. In the immediate future, Etienne would provide the Packers with a solid backup to Jacobs, helping to reduce the workload and keep Jacobs fresh for the 2026 season.

Looking beyond 2026, Etienne could be the ideal successor to Jacobs, offering Green Bay a dynamic running back who can contribute as both a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield. His all-around skill set would give the Packers a valuable asset moving forward, and he could seamlessly take over the role as the team’s primary running back once Jacobs’ tenure is over.

Is Etienne the Right Choice for the Packers?

While the idea of adding Travis Etienne Jr. is still just a rumor at this point, it makes a lot of sense for the Green Bay Packers. With Jacobs’ future uncertain and his performance beginning to dip, the Packers would benefit from bringing in a player like Etienne, who could step in and play a significant role both now and in the years to come. His dual-threat capability would add another layer to the Packers’ offense, making him an exciting option for Green Bay as they continue to build their roster.

If the Packers are serious about contending in the short term and positioning themselves for long-term success, adding Etienne to their backfield could be a smart move. The 2026 season will be crucial for Green Bay, and Etienne could be an important piece of the puzzle moving forward.