New Addition Named X-Factor For New Orleans Saints Heading Into 2026 NFL Season

The New Orleans Saints, still searching for a return to the playoffs since 2020, will be counting on RB Travis Etienne Jr. as their “X-factor” for the 2026 NFL season, according to ESPN’s Ben Solak. Etienne signed with New Orleans in free agency after four seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Solak linked the bet to potential improvement on offense as the Saints work through line questions: with Erik McCoy recovering, veteran David Edwards at left guard, and young tackles Kelvin Banks Jr. and Taliese Fuaga. Etienne’s deal is four years and $48 million, and he posted 1,107 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 260 carries last season.