Why PFF Just Labeled Travis Etienne a ‘Boom-or-Bust’ Signing for the Saints
Travis Etienne Jr., the best running back Clemson has ever had, is on his way to New Orleans. But even as Saints fans celebrate, the national media is already questioning whether this move will pay off.
Etienne just signed a four-year, $47 million deal with the Saints, making him one of the ten highest-paid running backs in the league. Still, Pro Football Focus is already warning that New Orleans could be taking a big risk.
The Big Easy Investment
Etienne spent five years in Jacksonville before landing in New Orleans. The Saints passed on Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love in the draft and instead put their faith—and their money—in Etienne. It’s easy to see why: last season, he piled up 1,399 yards from scrimmage and scored 13 touchdowns, both career highs.
Saints head coach Kellen Moore is already dreaming of those highlight-reel moments. "Fired up to have him," Moore said, citing Etienne’s "home run" speed that Clemson fans know all too well.
The PFF Cold Water: Why They’re Worried
Clemson fans know exactly what Etienne brings to the table, but PFF isn’t convinced. Over the last two seasons, they ranked his rushing grade just 58th out of 72 qualified backs.
Their doubts come down to two big concerns:
- First, the Saints’ offensive line struggled last year, finishing second-to-last in run-blocking according to PFF. If Etienne had trouble finding room in Jacksonville, it might not get any easier in New Orleans.
- Second, Etienne hasn’t been breaking as many tackles as he did early in his career. PFF argues the Saints paid top dollar for a player who’s good, but maybe not great.
The Boom: Why the Saints are Right
But there’s more to Etienne than just numbers. He finished 11th in the league in rushing yards last year and 17th in yards from scrimmage. Even after coming back from a serious foot injury, he forced 46 missed tackles and broke off 28 explosive runs in 2025.
Kellen Moore’s offense is built to get running backs involved in the passing game, and Etienne caught 36 passes for 6 touchdowns last year. If Moore can find ways to get him into open space, the talk about Etienne being a risky signing could fade away fast.