New Orleans Saints running back Travis Etienne Jr. has returned to his Louisiana roots in a deeply personal homecoming. The former Clemson star, who spent five seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars after being drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, signed with New Orleans in free agency this week.

The move marks a full-circle moment for Etienne, who grew up idolizing the Saints and wore No. 9 in college after being inspired by Drew Brees. His 11-month-old son, named 'Saint' after the team he loved as a child, will now grow up in the same state where Etienne's football journey began. The Etienne family's connection to the Saints runs deep, with his great-grandmother being among the first to support the franchise.

Etienne will switch from No. 1 to No. 3 as a fresh start, representing his third NFL team since leaving Louisiana for Clemson. The number change symbolizes his transformation since becoming a father, which he calls 'life-changing.' He hopes his son will one day understand his passion for football and chase his own dreams with the same dedication.