Travis Etienne isn’t leaving Clemson. At least not this year, anyway. But that didn’t stop one of the nation’s best running backs from having fun with the life-altering decision.

Mood: Travis Etienne saying he made his decision before the NFL deadline, but wanted to skip a few days of class and play 2K so he stalled in announcing. Mood again: Etienne crushing a meat lovers pizza while Isaiah Simmons ran the 40 at the NFL Combine. — Grace Raynor (@gmraynor) March 3, 2020

The deadline for underclassmen to declare for the NFL Draft passed in mid-January. Etienne waited until the waning moments of the deadline to announce his return to this year’s runner-up.

Stop That Tiger

Etienne’s value to the Clemson offense is immeasurable. Averaging 7.8 yards per carry in three seasons, totaling 56 rushing touchdowns and eclipsing 1,600 yards in two consecutive seasons, Etienne’s pro value is sky high. So why would the back stick around for another season of college ball? Another shot at glory? Ability to finish a degree and graduate? A flooded half back 2020 draft class?

That’s right. Without Etienne, Clemson likely sits atop any preseason poll heading into the 2020 season. WITH the senior rusher, it’s a runaway. Clemson is immediately a favorite to return to the College Football Playoff, and remains a clear front-runner to win the whole thing. A weakened ACC and return of stud QB Trevor Lawrence allows the expectation of the Tigers to steam roll the rest of the field.

Travis Etienne: America’s Running Back

That brings us to the tweet, the oh-so-glorious tweet. Leading up to the declaration deadline, Etienne took his time to publicize his decision. He knew he would return for one more season, but the temptation to skip a few days of classes and play 2K was irresistible.

Travis Etienne is living the life we all wish we had. Maybe not the workouts and brick wall defensive tackles aspects, but the relaxation is peak performance. Think back to your college days in the dorms… you can hear the demons again dragging you back to your bed, your favorite chair, the bars, the rec, etc. Travis Etienne caved to those demons while weighing his options and avoided ANY consequences.

He took a break; something every single one of us could use.

Travis Etienne: Exceptional Running Back, American Hero.

REMINDER: WASH YOUR HANDS!