If running backs are devalued, you might not know it from some of the moves in Monday’s slew of events.
Hours after the NFL’s free agent contact period began, the New Orleans Saints agreed to a four-year, $52 million deal with running back Travis Etienne Jr., according to NFL Media. This comes shortly after the Chiefs signed running back Kenneth Walker III to a three-year, $45 million contract.
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Etienne and Walker are both good players but not considered elite at their position. Now their salaries are among the highest in the NFL. Before Monday, only five backs in the NFL had contracts worth more than $13 million per year, which is what Etienne is getting.
This signing could signal the end of the Alvin Kamara era in New Orleans. It could also take the Saints’ consideration away from selecting running back Jeremiyah Love in the NFL Draft. The Saints are one of the teams considered a potential landing spot for Love at No. 8, although Love likely won’t stick around that long after workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine.
What the Saints get in Etienne is a consistently productive and versatile defender. Etienne had 5,136 yards from scrimmage in four seasons with the Jaguars. He also had 168 catches, making him one of the best receiving backs in the NFL. Etienne was outstanding as a runner in 2025, rushing for 1,107 yards at 4.3 yards per carry.
Etienne will also run behind linebacker David Edwards, who agreed to a four-year, $61 million contract with the Saints on Monday, ESPN reported.
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The Saints need a running back, and with quarterback Tyler Shoff on his rookie contract, they can afford a luxury signing like Etienne. New Orleans performed better than expected last season, and while there are still holes on the roster, Etienne will help the offense.
This isn’t a bargain deal by any means, but the Saints have never been shy about spending money, regardless of their cap situation. Etienne will help the young quarterback and the entire offense.
grade: B-
