2021 NFL Mock Draft: Washington Football Team goes offense in Round 1

Virginia Tech OT Christian Darrisaw. Mandatory Credit: Lee Luther Jr.-USA TODAY Sports
Virginia Tech OT Christian Darrisaw. Mandatory Credit: Lee Luther Jr.-USA TODAY Sports /
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Clemson RB Travis Etienne. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Clemson RB Travis Etienne. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 16. . Running Back. Buffalo Bills. Travis Etienne. 29

The Bills basically had to abandon their run game during the playoffs because it was so ineffective. Zack Moss was struggling before he went out for the season with an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Devin Singletary is explosive but inconsistent between the tackles. At times, T.J. Yeldon was their best back.

In order for the Bills’ offense to truly become elite, they’ll need to add a back that can take advantage of their strong offense. Travis Etienne should be just that.

Etienne was a very productive player during his four-year career at Clemson. That may be an understatement. During his career, he never had fewer than 13 touchdowns in a season. That came during his freshman year. But over four years, Etienne had a ridiculous 78 total touchdowns (70 rushing) and was one of the most explosive players in college football.

Etienne runs with amazing burst and averaged 7.2 yards per carry on his career. He was a true home-run threat every time he touched the ball and in the open field, it is very hard to catch him. He’s fast. He’s elusive. And over the last couple of years, he has improved his receiving skill set and looks like a true, three-down back.

At 5-foot-10, 205 pounds, Etienne is bigger than Singletary and is far more explosive than Moss. He would help to take pressure off Josh Allen and could have a chance to be a 1,000-yard rusher if the Bills can keep their offensive line mostly intact.

Etienne’s only concern is that he has had some issues with fumbles during his career, but that’s a coachable issue. He’s a good value and a solid option for the Bills at this stage in the draft, so grabbing him now is a sensible move.