Jacksonville Jaguars RB Travis Etienne is third in the NFL in rushing.
Getty
Jacksonville Jaguars RB Travis Etienne is third in the NFL in rushing.
The New Orleans Saints made one of the early splash moves of the 2026 NFL free agency period by signing running back Travis Etienne Jr. to a major contract that has sent waves through both the franchise and the league. Now Saints’ quarterback Tyler Shough has chimed in on the celebration down in Louisiana that’s happening in light of Etienne’s signing.
The former Jacksonville Jaguars player agreed to a reported four-year deal worth around $52 million, giving New Orleans a dynamic player in the backfield as the team looks to reshape its offense for the upcoming season. Here’s what to know about the reaction by Shough, as well as the overall impact that the Saints’ signing of Travis Etienne Jr. will have on the team.
Tyler Shough’s Message in Response to Signing Etienne
Travis Etienne.
GettyRB Travis Etienne.
The Saint’s quarterback Tyler Shough took to his official X account to send a message welcoming Travis Etienne Jr. to the franchise. Using the phrase that’s iconic to the Saints’ fandom, Shough wrote, “WHO DAT let’s work! 🖤⚜️” alongside a link to the NFL’s announcement of the Saints’ signing of Etienne upon the opening of the league’s free agency period on Monday, March 9, 2026.
WHO DAT let’s work! 🖤⚜️ https://t.co/bN09SnkGfw
— Tyler Shough (@tylershough2) March 9, 2026
Etienne’s arrival immediately changes the outlook for the Saints’ offense. Known for his explosive running style and ability to contribute in the passing game, the Louisiana native returns to his home state to become one of the key offensive pieces in New Orleans’ plans moving forward.
A Homecoming for a Louisiana Star
Jets defense.
GettyThe Jets defense arguably had their worst performance of the season in Jacksonville.
The Saints’ signing of Travis Etienne Jr. represents a sentimental homecoming for the running back, who grew up in Jennings, Louisiana before becoming a standout collegiate player on the Clemson Tigers‘ football team. After entering the NFL as a first-round pick in 2021, Etienne spent the first several years of his career in Jacksonville, where he developed into one of the league’s most versatile running backs.
During his time with the Jaguars, Etienne consistently produced both as a runner and as a receiver. Across his career so far, he has totaled thousands of yards from scrimmage and has become known within the Jacksonville franchise for his breakaway speed and big-play ability. The Saints are hoping that his production translates over to New Orleans, particularly given that Etienne is coming off of a strong season which includes more than 1,100 rushing yards and over 1,300 yards from scrimmage – both of which show that he can carry a significant offensive workload.
For a tema that has been looking to inject more explosiveness into its offense, Travis Etienne Jr.’s skill set fits perfectly. He brings to New Orleans the ability to run between tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and break long runs, all of which are traits that have made him a dual threat in the league. And now – Laissez les bon temps rouler! Welcome to New Orleans, Travis Etienne Jr. – WHO DAT!