Tank Bigsby: The Trade That Shakes Up the Eagles’ Backfield
1. Trade Breakdown: What Went Down?
On September 8, 2025, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired running back Tank Bigsby from the Jacksonville Jaguars, sending a 2026 fifth- and sixth-round pick in return.
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Draft value: The fifth-round pick originated from San Francisco and could convert to a fourth-rounder if DE Bryce Huff achieves eight sacks in the 2025 season
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Trade rationale: With Will Shipley sidelined by a rib injury, the Eagles needed reliable backfield depth behind Saquon Barkley.
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Positional fit: Bigsby is expected to contribute as a kick return specialist and backup RB, offering value on special teams.
2. Grading the Trade: Who Comes Out Ahead?
Opinions vary:
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CBS Sports rated the Eagles with a B-, citing the steep price in draft capital for a backup.
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ESPN gave the Eagles a C-, praising Bigsby’s upside but suggesting Roseman may have overpaid ESPN.com.
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By contrast, the Jaguars secured an A, replacing Bigsby with valuable draft ammo.
3. Auburn to the NFL: Tank’s College Legacy
Originally from Hogansville, Georgia, Bigsby starred at Auburn before entering the 2023 NFL Draft:
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Freshman year (2020): 834 rushing yards, 6.0 yards per carry, SEC Newcomer/Freshman of the Year.
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2021: 1,099 yards and 10 TDs; 2022: 970 yards and 10 TDs.
4. Pro Career Highlights With Jacksonville
Bigsby was selected 88th overall in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft Wikipedia.
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2023 rookie season: Appeared in all 17 games, totaling 132 yards and 2 TDs.
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2024 breakout year: Rushed for 766 yards, 7 touchdowns; notable performances include:
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Over 100 yards and 2 TDs against the Colts (Week 5).
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118 yards and 2 TDs vs. Patriots (Week 7 in London)
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Career totals: Up to 898 rushing yards, 9 TDs, and 60 receiving yards by end of 2024.
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Physical profile: At 24 years old, he’s a 5’11”, 215-lb stout back with upside and versatility.
5. High Impact Highlights Worth Watching
While not embedding the video directly, one noted YouTube clip features Tank Bigsby highlight reels at Lincoln Financial Field—perfect for fans wanting to see his power runs and explosive plays.
6. Fantasy Football: How the Trade Affects Value
Bigsby’s move to Philly changes his fantasy appeal:
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Handcuff tier: Pre-trade, he’s seen as a Tier 1 handcuff, with potential to outplay Travis Etienne on Jacksonville.
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Fantasy buzz: Analysts noted his missed-tackle generation as a key stat for fantasy managers seeking his kind of yardage creation.
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With Shipley injured, some fantasy players immediately considered Bigsby an instant upgrade at #2 RB, prompting heat on forums.
7. Reddit Reacts: Fans Weigh In
From r/eagles:
“Dude Bigsby is good. Instant upgrade at #2 RB. Sorry Shipley and Dillon.”
“He’s a better player than both of them, as much as I like Shipley.”
From r/nfl:
Some fans dubbed the trade a strategic flex for the champions:
“[Rapoport] Sources: The Eagles are at it again, trading for Jaguars RB Tank Bigsby. The champs continue to build. Rumor.”
8. Special Teams Edge: Return Potential
Bigsby’s speed and field vision make him an asset beyond the backfield. With a 32.5-yard average per kickoff return in 2024, he brings special teams value to Philly.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Tank and the Eagles
For the Eagles:
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Depth and security: With Shipley hurt, Bigsby fills a much-needed role behind Barkley.
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Special teams boost: His return skills free up roster flexibility.
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Cost vs reward: Paying Day-3 picks may seem steep—but the Eagles’ win-now roster tolerates higher trade prices.
For Tank Bigsby:
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Elevated opportunity on a Super Bowl-contending team.
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Platform to shine: Prove value beyond being just a returner or backup.
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Fantasy upside: If injuries hit, he could become a league-changing pickup.
