About a month ago, the Minnesota Vikings were on tap to examine the free agencies of roughly five premier running backs, but thanks to recent events, that number has dwindled to three. The Dallas Cowboys re-signed Javonte Williams , while the New York Jets franchise-tagged Breece Hall .
Dowdle, Etienne, and Walker headline the remaining list as Minnesota weighs cost, durability, and pass-protection value.
No one is too sure if Minnesota will invest in a top-tier free-agent running back , but these are the remaining options if so.
The Big Three in alphabetical order.
Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle (5) pushes forward with the football as Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Jarran Reed (90) closes in during the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, with the late-season matchup taking place on Dec. 28, 2025. The play unfolded during a physical NFC contest. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images.
1. Rico Dowdle
After a quiet start to his career in Dallas, Dowdle's fortunes changed. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Cowboys in 2020, but saw limited playing time until late 2023. Signing with Carolina during the 2024 offseason proved to be a turning point, as the new environment provided more opportunities and led to a marked improvement in his performance.
Throughout his career, Dowdle has averaged 4.9 yards per touch. As he nears 28 this summer, the upcoming season is critical for him to establish himself as a primary RB1. Historically, running backs often begin to decline around 28 or 29, losing some of thr earlier explosiveness.
Minnesota's tight cap situation presents challenges. Entering free agency, the Vikings are approximately $45 million over the cap, which restricts their ability to acquire a proven veteran running back. With uncertainty surrounding Aaron Jones ' future, interim GM Rob Brzezinski must probably determine how to replace him. He could promote Jordan Mason from within, sign a free agent like Dowdle, or draft a rookie — all remain possibilities.
Spotrac estimates Dowdle's annual salary at $6 to $7 million. Brzezinski might consider a deal in the neighborhood of two years and $15 million.
Another option for the Vikings is a complete reset at the position. With a projected nine picks in the upcoming April draft, they have a valuable opportunity to bring in a 21- or 22-year-old runner and rebuild the backfield with young talent for the first time since Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison — over a half-decade ago.
At 27, Travis Etienne is entering his physical prime, and after an impressive 2025 season, the Jaguars should probably re-sign him. They haven't done that yet. The Jaguars could decide to feature Bhayshul Tuten as their long-term running back.
Etienne's 2025 performance highlights his value, as he amassed 1,399 scrimmage yards and 13 touchdowns, proving his versatility on offense. Statistically, his output mirrors that of Javonte Williams, a now-proven workhorse in the NFC.
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) carries the football through traffic during action at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida, as the Jaguars hosted the New York Jets on Dec. 14, 2025. Etienne searches for running room while defenders converge during the regular-season matchup between the AFC clubs. Mandatory Credit: Travis Register-Imagn Images.
However, Etienne possesses a crucial skill that sets him apart from many other running backs: pass protection. Arguably the most reliable blocking back available, Etienne would be a significant asset to Minnesota's offense. Kevin O'Connell's system requires running backs who can provide consistent pocket protection, which is especially crucial for a young quarterback like J.J. McCarthy . Etienne excels in this area, making him an ideal fit for the Vikings.
SI.com 's Mark Morales-Smith predicted Etienne to land in Minnesota this week, writing , "Minnesota is set to move on from Aaron Jones when the new NFL season starts, and that leaves them with Jordan Mason as their lone capable running back."
"Mason has talent, but he's oft-injured and adds little to the passing attack. This is a Super Bowl-caliber defense that is just a few offensive pieces away from being a legitimate contender. We expect them to add a proven veteran quarterback and Etienne this offseason. Not only is Etienne an excellent running back, but he can also help replace what Jones brought to the passing attack."
His new deal should command around $12 million annually.
3. Kenneth Walker III
Unlike Etienne, Walker III doesn't really pass-block at all. That might cancel him from the Vikings' free-agency plans altogether.
Teams must consider Walker's injury history, too, as he's missed roughly 15% of his NFL games. Durability has been a recurring concern throughout his career, and any team signing him should expect him to play 14 or 15 games rather than a full 17.
Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) addresses reporters during a postgame press conference at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, after the championship game played on Feb. 8, 2026, where Seattle defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX. Walker speaks with media following the title-clinching victory. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.
Despite these concerns, his 2025 season demonstrated significant value. Walker played all 17 games for the first time, amassing 1,027 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns, along with 282 receiving yards. The 2025 season showcased the balanced production teams seek in a starting running back.
Another appealing, yet often overlooked, aspect of Walker's game is his exceptional ball security. Coaches highly value running backs who consistently protect the ball, and Walker seldom fumbles.
All told, Walker averages 1,140 yards from scrimmage per season, complete with 8 touchdowns. His stock also couldn't be higher, winning the Super Bowl MVP last month after former Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold and an elite Seahawks defense won the chip.
Walker is expected to fetch a four-year deal worth around $50 million.
