The Jacksonville Jaguars' running back room just got a lot more competitive. With the selection of Bhayshul Tuten at No. 104 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, all eyes turn to what this means for established starter Travis Etienne. Jaguars fans have come to rely on Etienne's explosive play style, but Tuten's arrival could shift the landscape in a big way.

The Changing Landscape for Travis Etienne

Travis Etienne has been a focal point of the Jaguars' offense since being drafted in 2021. Renowned for his speed and ability to break away for big gains, Etienne brings versatility as both a runner and receiver. However, Jacksonville's decision to draft Bhayshul Tuten marks a strategic move for the future. Tuten brings a strikingly similar skill set, known for his elite straight-line speed and playmaking ability, as outlined in the official Jaguars draft report.

Tuten's presence signals a shift. Head Coach Liam Coen wants to inject even more explosiveness into the offense. The rookie's 4.32 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine matches Etienne's own reputation for breakaway speed. This creates a dynamic "home-run" threat in the backfield—something that could alter Etienne's workload or role as the Jaguars move forward.

Speed, Competition, and Opportunity

What makes the Tuten pick particularly intriguing is the opportunity for competition. According to Big Cat Country's detailed draft analysis, Tuten's physical profile and running style closely mirror that of Travis Etienne. Both backs excel in hitting the edge and turning short gains into long runs.

This level of similarity creates a natural rivalry—one that can push both players to elevate their game. Etienne, a proven three-down back, now faces a challenge to maintain his share of touches, especially with a younger, hungry talent in the room. Tuten's ability as a kick returner also adds a new wrinkle that could free Etienne for a more specialized offensive role or keep him fresher late in games.

Potential Role Changes and X-Factors

While Etienne's proven production gives him the inside track for the starting position, Tuten arrives with impressive collegiate numbers. He averaged almost six yards per carry in his final season at Virginia Tech and showcased improvement in receiving and special teams play. The Jaguars may deploy the two in tandem, keeping both defenses and fans guessing about who will get the call on crucial downs.

It's worth noting, as Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry observed, that Tuten blends confidence with a rugged running style. This mindset could be exactly what the Jaguars need to keep the backfield productive over a long NFL season. If Tuten improves his ball security and pass protection, Etienne may see his workload being managed more carefully, creating a potent one-two punch that few defenses can stop.

What Does the Future Hold for Travis Etienne?

Looking ahead, Travis Etienne remains a crucial part of the Jaguars offense. There is no question the team values his unique blend of speed, vision, and receiving ability. Yet, the arrival of Bhayshul Tuten means Etienne will need to continue evolving to keep his feature-back status. Jacksonville's coaching staff has made it clear: competition drives progress, and every player must keep earning their role.

With two explosive backs at their disposal, the Jaguars are well-positioned to attack defenses in creative ways. Etienne fans should view Tuten's selection as an opportunity, not a threat. It shows the team's commitment to staying fast, fresh, and unpredictable.

For more insights on the Jaguars draft strategy, read the official announcement and explore Bhayshul Tuten’s scouting report for additional analysis.

The Etienne-Tuten duo represents a thrilling era for Jacksonville's backfield. Jaguars supporters should be excited to see how this evolving competition pushes both players to new heights later this fall.