2021 NFL Draft: Travis Etienne has got the juice

CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 29: Running back Travis Etienne #9 of the Clemson Tigers rushes for a touchdown during the second quarter of the Tigers' football game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Memorial Stadium on August 29, 2019 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Mike Comer/Getty Images)
CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 29: Running back Travis Etienne #9 of the Clemson Tigers rushes for a touchdown during the second quarter of the Tigers' football game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Memorial Stadium on August 29, 2019 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Mike Comer/Getty Images) /
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Travis Etienne looks to be a top back in the 2021 NFL Draft

The Clemson Tigers are often referred to as “WRU” and rightfully so; the Tigers have been able to produce NFL talent at the receiver position at a high rate for the past several years — from guys like DeAndre Hopkins, arguably one of the best receivers in the league. However, running back Travis Etienne has them looking at a non-receiver in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Tee Higgins was recently drafted with the 33rd (one pick away from the first round) overall pick in this year’s draft. Sammy Watkins is another Clemson alum who is fresh off a Super Bowl win with the Kansas City Chiefs. The Tigers also have another potential star at the receiver position that will likely enter the 2021 Draft, Justyn Ross.

Today, however, we will not be talking about a receiver. We’ll be taking a look at one of the best running backs in the 2021 NFL Draft, Travis Etienne. Etienne had the opportunity to pursue the NFL Draft this year but decided to go back to college, likely because he wants to win another national championship, or at least pursue one. It’s an interesting choice for a running back to not come out, especially when they have had the success that Etienne has had.

Oftentimes running backs will look to enter the NFL while the iron is still hot; the less tread on the tires, the better. That being said, it can still be a good thing that Etienne returns. There are still parts of his game that need refining and this year could give him the chance to do so.