The Jaguars are still looking for their first win of the 2024 season, and things only get tougher in Week 4 against a division rival, as the Texans host their winless AFC South foes.
However, if Jacksonville wants to beat Houston, the team will have to do so without a 100-percent healthy Travis Etienne.
The Jaguars running back did not frequent the field often to start the contest. He saw just three snaps in the first quarter and was spotted on the sidelines for the majority of the frame. Meanwhile, Lawrence and the offense were able to find the end zone to grab an early lead.
Etienne's 2024 season has been off to a modest start. Entering Week 4, the 2021 first-round pick has 164 rushing yards and nine receptions for 15 yards. He was held out of the end zone last week for the first time this season.
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Here's what to know about Etienne's absence and his injury.
Travis Etienne injury update
Etienne was seen standing on the sidelines without a helmet. He played just two snaps before he was taken off in favor of the Tank Bigsby/D'Ernest Johnson duo.
The CBS broadcast initially said that he was not injured, leading to confusion among the fan base. A bit later, the Jaguars announced that he would be questionable to return to the game due to a shoulder injury.
CBS crew says #Jaguars RB Travis Etienne Jr. is not injured, shows him on the sideline with his helmet off while the offense is on the field.
— Zach Goodall (@zach_goodall) September 29, 2024
Shortly after, Tank Bigsby breaks off a 22-yard rush into Houston territory.
It's not clear when Etienne suffered the ailment, however, he returned before the quarter was over. With 18 seconds left in the frame, Etienne got his first carry of the day, rushing for a six-yard game as the final play of the first quarter.
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Travis Etienne stats vs. Texans
- Rush Attempts: 1
- Rushing Yards 6
- Receptions: 0
- Receiving Yards: 0