Etienne “gets better every week…”

WATFORD, United Kingdom – New venue, same storylines.

One Jaguars storyline this week is breaking a four-game losing streak, but just as prominent leading to their annual London home game is running back Travis Etienne Jr.

He’s the clear starter, even more so following this week’s trade of James Robinson – and he was a major topic when Head Coach Doug Pederson, wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. and quarterback Trevor Lawrence addressed United Kingdom media on Friday in advance of Sunday’s game.

“You’re kind of seeing him get more and more comfortable every week, and starting to make more and plays,” Lawrence said as the Jaguars (2-5) prepared to play the Denver Broncos (2-5) at Wembley Stadium in London Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

“We’re excited to have him back there.”

Etienne, the No. 25 overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft, missed his rookie season with a Lisfranc injury. He took over the starting position two games ago from Robinson, who led the Jaguars in rushing the past two seasons and who on Wednesday was traded to the New York Jets.

If the trade means increased work for Etienne, Pederson’s fine with that.

“I believe he can definitely get more carries, more touches,” Pederson said. “But we’ve got a lot of faith and belief in [reserve running back] JaMycal [Hasty] and 2022 fifth-round draft selection] Snoop [Conner]. That’s why we drafted Snoop and got him in here. It’s a good opportunity for him.

“We know Travis is going to get the bulk of the work. At the same time, those other two have to be ready to go.”

Etienne has rushed for 415 yards and a touchdown on 68 carries this season, including 271 yards on 34 carries in the last three games. He had more than 100 total yards each of the last three weeks, including his first 100-yard rushing game – 114 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries – in a loss to the New York Giants this past Sunday.

“Early on, I think he was trying to get his feet wet,” said Lawrence, who played three seasons with Etienne at Clemson University….