Jaguars RB Travis Etienne could return in Week 9 to serve as the starter once he is healthy

Travis Etienne hasn't been on the Jaguars' roster for the past two weeks, but he could return on Sunday. Whenever the fourth-year running back takes the field next, he's expected to reclaim his starting spot.

Etienne's hamstring injury opened the door for Tank Bigsby to handle an increased workload during Jacksonville's win in London against New England. The 2023 third-rounder rushed for 118 yards and two touchdowns during that contest, and added 86 scrimmage yards last week. Despite this success, head coach Doug Pederson is poised to keep Etienne at the top of the depth chart.

“I am convinced that an injury cannot replace one’s own position.” said Pederson (via ESPN's Michael DiRocco). “I think you have to have fair competition for us. We're fortunate to have two really good running backs right now. When Etienne comes back he will be just as explosive, just as good, just as powerful and it will still be his job.”

Pederson has previously spoken about a desire to reduce Etienne's workload after he totaled 580 touches during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Bigsby would help achieve that goal by playing a notable role when both defenders are in action. In fact, the eighth-year coach said Bigsby's diverse skill set should allow him to remain a starter on offense moving forward. With wideout Christian Kirk With Jacksonville sidelined for the remainder of the season, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Jacksonville take a more run-heavy approach on offense.

Etienne — who participated in limited practice each day this week and is listed as questionable for Sunday's contest — had his fifth-year option picked up this offseason. As a result, the Clemson product is on the books for a salary of $6.14 million next year; That reduces the chances of a trade being completed before this year's deadline. The 2-6 Jaguars spread out long-time left tackles Cam Robinson Earlier this week, however, so further moves could be imminent from a seller perspective.

Assuming Etienne stays in place for the rest of the year, his performance in the RB1 role will be worth keeping a close eye on. The 25-year-old missed his entire rookie season but delivered a strong performance in 2022, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. This fell to 3.8 last year and a recovery in efficiency at the end of the current season would be welcomed by the team and players. Etienne should have ample opportunity to return to his previous form upon his return.