Travis Etienne Jr. Say it out loud.
No, you’re saying it wrong. That’s according to the star running back, who updated the pronunciation of his name during his introductory press conference with the New Orleans Saints on Friday.
We should be saying “A-chan,” like Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane.
Etienne told reporters the mispronunciation began in college. He played for the Clemson Tigers from 2017-2020, winning a national title in 2018.
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“When I went to college, I kept telling them my name like every day, every day, every day. After four weeks, they just couldn’t get it, so I’m like … how you see it is how you say it,” Etienne said.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter posted Etienne’s explanation on his X account.
Now, all heads turn to Etienne’s brother, Carolina Panthers second-year player Trevor Etienne. Will he also ask for the pronunciation change?
Or will he follow the lead of hard rock drummers Carmine Appice (“ah-peace”) and Vinny Appice (“ah-puh-see”) to create a set of brothers who pronounce their last names differently?
Travis Etienne, 27, signed a four-year, $52 million contract with the Saints as a free agent after spending the first four seasons of his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2025, he enjoyed a big year, rushing for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns. Also, he caught 36 passes for 292 yards and six more scores.
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the New York Jets. Credit: Travis Register-Imagn Images
Etienne also announced Friday, per USA Today, that he will wear a new number for the Saints. He is changing from the No. 1 he wore with the Jags to No. 3.
The Saints finished 6-11 in 2025 after rallying to win four of their final five games behind rookie quarterback Tyler Shough. They hope Etienne can provide a boost to the running game. Alvin Kamara, who will be 31 when the 2026 season begins, rushed for a career-low 471 yards last year.
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