Wholesome: Travis Etienne Says Playing Against His Brother Will Be “A Moment Filled With Love And Joy”

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) rushes for yards during the second quarter Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]

The excitement is brewing in the football world as we look ahead to a unique face-off set for 2025, featuring a showdown that stars the Etienne brothers. The Carolina Panthers will be squaring off against the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the spotlight will shine on Travis and Trevor Etienne, two talented running backs with a shared family legacy.

Travis, now 26, has already made a name for himself in the NFL after a stellar collegiate career at Clemson. His younger brother, Trevor, is making his mark in the league at just 20 years old. After kicking off his college journey at the University of Florida, Trevor made a notable switch to the University of Georgia before catching the Panthers’ eye as a fourth-round pick.

Their bond runs deep, and Trevor recently opened up about the profound impact his older brother has had on his life and career. He expressed, “Words can’t explain” the influence Travis has had, highlighting a key lesson that resonates through their family: “He always told me don’t try to leave a legacy, live a legacy.” Those words have shaped Trevor’s approach both on and off the field. He credits Travis with teaching him the importance of professionalism and taking care of his body—cornerstones of success at the highest level.

As they prepare to step onto the field as professionals, both brothers are eager for the chance to face each other in an NFL game—a dream they’ve shared since childhood. Travis reflected on the significance of this matchup: “For my parents, it’s going to be very exciting. I think it’s going to be a moment filled with love and joy, for real.” The anticipation is palpable as they consider how far they’ve come together. “Knowing that we’ve dreamed of these things and it’s actually happening — I feel like that’s a moment we’re just going to take in and enjoy because this doesn’t happen often.”

Of course, this sibling rivalry comes with a competitive edge. Travis cheekily acknowledged the stakes, saying, “[I]’ll try to go out there and kick his ass, win the game.” It’s a lighthearted remark, but it drives home the point: when the time comes, the Etienne brothers will not only be facing off as teammates but also as rivals, each aiming for personal and team glory.

As fans look forward to this exciting matchup, it’s clear that this clash between the Panthers and Jaguars will be more than just a game; it will be a celebration of family, dreams, and the unbreakable bond forged through football. Prepare for an unforgettable showdown!