2021 NFL Draft: Best fits for top running back prospects

Travis Etienne, Clemson – Best 2021 NFL Draft Fit: New York Jets

The New York Jets may have played themselves out of position to draft Trevor Lawrence. However, there’s another Clemson Tiger they should have on their radar, Travis Etienne. Whether they draft Lawrence or not, Etienne is the ideal running back for the Jets. Frank Gore isn’t going to be around much longer, Ty Johnson isn’t a feature back,and that’s the bulk of their running back room.

What the Jets need is a back who can create something from nothing. The electric 5-10, 210-pound ball carrier averaged over 7.3 yards per carry for his career coming into the season. Moreover, he’s rushed for at least 13 touchdowns in each of his four seasons.

Etienne has shades of Chris Johnson in his ability to exploit creases and burst through the hole. When he’s in the open field, he’s gone. Pursuit angles aren’t enough to stop him, thanks to his sub 4.4 speed.

Over the last two seasons, he’s shown the ability to work as a pass-catcher. His hands are reliable, and he’s capable of running the routes needed for an option out of the backfield.

Overall, their offense is starving for playmakers. Travis Etienne is a big-time playmaker who’ll likely be available in the 20s.