What happened: Travis Etienne Jr. returned to practice on Wednesday after being placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury on Oct. 2. Quarterback Tyler Shough confirmed the running back's participation, noting his excitement to have Etienne back on the field. Etienne took part in drills during the session as his return window opened.
Why it matters: Etienne's return provides a major lift to an offense that has relied heavily on Shough through the air. The rookie passer has thrown for 1,986 yards and 14 touchdowns through eight games in 2026. Restoring Etienne to the backfield deepens the ground attack following a 23-22 victory over the Cleveland Browns.
By the numbers: Etienne has run 30 times for 128 yards in 2026 through 3 games. Shough has completed 204 of 308 passes for 1,986 yards with 14 touchdowns and 6 interceptions in 2026 through 8 games.
What to watch: The team must determine whether to activate Etienne from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers.