The Jacksonville Jaguars signed Chris Rodriguez Jr. to a two-year, $10 million contract worth up to $12 million to compete against Bhayshul Tuten for the starting running back job to replace Travis Etienne Jr. The former sixth-round pick spent his first three seasons with the Washington Commanders, during which he was cut twice in 2024, but never gave up, totaling 920 yards and ten touchdowns in 35 games. Rodriguez had a strong third season, rushing for a career-high 500 yards and six touchdowns across 13 games and seven starts.
Unfortunately, he suffered a slight setback.
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ $10M free-agent signing underwent a procedure
Dec 7, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (36) rushes the ball against the Minnesota Vikings during the second half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
Chris Rodriguez Jr. suffered an apparent foot injury early in the offseason workout program, causing him to miss the start of organized team activities. According to Ryan O’Halloran of The Florida Times-Union, the newcomer recently underwent a procedure that will keep him out for the rest of mandatory minicamp and OTAs. As O’Halloran notes, Rodriguez is expected to be ready for the start of training camp in late July.
Injury update on #Jaguars RB Chris Rodriguez, Jr. …https://t.co/cmTHzgzufZ
— Ryan O’Halloran (@ryanohalloran) June 8, 2026
How could this impact the RB competition?
Bhayshul Tuten impressed during the spring and recently turned heads at mandatory minicamp. He has emerged as the early frontrunner with Chris Rodriguez Jr. sidelined heading into training camp. However, the winner will likely be determined in the summer, giving Rodriguez a chance to recover from his foot injury, display his skills once the pads come on, and get live reps during the preseason.