Clemson football: Travis Etienne’s NFL Draft stock soars after blazing 40 at Pro Day

With a blistering 40 time, Clemson football star Travis Etienne may be the first back taken in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Travis Etienne thrived as a member of the Clemson football team and is now expected to be a star running back in the NFL.

The two-time All-American and two-time ACC Player of the Year further solidified himself as arguably the top running back prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft at Clemson’s Pro Day on Thursday.

Etienne was clocked with 4.40 40-yard dash time. He bet on himself by returning to Clemson for his senior season and it looks like he won big.

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Travis Etienne projects as a first-round 2021 NFL Draft selection

In four years with the Tigers, the Jennings, Louisiana native became the most productive running back in ACC football history. He amassed an ACC record of 4,952 yards on the ground and 70 rushing touchdowns and those are just two of the several Clemson, ACC and NCAA records he broke in four years. With the NFL now fully in sight, Etienne looks to make a huge splash at the next level.

Only one running back came off the board in the first 32 picks a season ago but Etienne and Alabama’s Najee Harris could make it two this year. Etienne is the top running back prospect according to NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah.

Though the running back position has been largely marginalized in recent years, Etienne was projected to come off the board in the late 20s-early 30s this year. But with a strong 40-yard dash time, he may be pushed up a few picks with the Miami Dolphins at No. 18 a potential suitor. His game should translate to the pro level right away with his ability to be a receiver and contribute on special teams.

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