The Jacksonville Jaguars have made a significant move by trading running back Tank Bigsby to the Philadelphia Eagles, receiving in return two future draft picks: a fifth-round and a sixth-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. This trade marks an intriguing development for both teams, with various implications on roster construction, team strategies, and player potential.
Tank Bigsby, drafted by the Jaguars in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, entered the league with considerable expectations. Coming out of Auburn, Bigsby was highly regarded for his physical running style, balance, and ability to gain yards after contact. His college production showed flashes of a dynamic back capable of breaking tackles and sustaining drives. However, his transition to the NFL has been met with challenges, including limited playing time, injuries, and competition within a crowded Jaguars backfield.
For Jacksonville, the decision to trade Bigsby appears to be motivated by several factors. First, the Jaguars have been in a process of reshaping their roster under head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke, aiming to build a team that can contend in a competitive AFC South and beyond. The backfield situation in Jacksonville has been fluid, with other running backs like Travis Etienne Jr. and James Robinson commanding more prominent roles in the offense. Bigsby’s opportunities have been limited, and the Jaguars likely saw value in turning a player who was not a central piece into future draft assets.
Draft picks, especially in the middle rounds, hold significant value for NFL teams looking to build depth and find developmental prospects. The 2026 fifth and sixth-round picks the Jaguars received represent potential future contributors who can be molded within Jacksonville’s system. These picks give the Jaguars flexibility to address other positional needs or use them as currency in future trades. While late-round picks do not guarantee success, the NFL has many examples of players selected in these rounds who develop into impactful starters or even stars. By securing these selections, Jacksonville enhances its long-term roster-building strategy, emphasizing the accumulation of draft capital.
From Philadelphia’s perspective, acquiring Tank Bigsby is a move that signals their interest in bolstering their running back group with a player who has upside. The Eagles, a team known for their strong running game and physical style of play, could provide an environment where Bigsby’s skill set flourishes. Philadelphia has historically valued running backs who can contribute in both the running and passing game, and Bigsby’s balance and physicality may complement their offensive scheme.
The Eagles’ running back room, while featuring established players, often benefits from depth due to injuries or the necessity of rotation to keep players fresh. Adding Bigsby adds another weapon to their arsenal, especially with a team that emphasizes a balanced offensive attack. Bigsby’s youth and potential make him a worthwhile gamble for Philadelphia, who are likely hoping that a change of scenery and coaching can unlock his full abilities.
This trade also reflects the broader dynamics of NFL roster management, where teams constantly evaluate talent, opportunity, and fit. Players like Bigsby, who show promise but have not yet secured a starring role, can often find a second chance in a new environment. It underscores how a player’s career trajectory can be shaped not only by their abilities but also by the team context, coaching philosophy, and opportunity provided.
Looking at the numbers, Bigsby’s rookie season with the Jaguars was limited in touches and production, as is common for many rookie running backs adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL. Despite flashes of potential, he did not become a feature back, partly due to the presence of other backs and Jacksonville’s offensive focus. The Jaguars’ willingness to trade him away suggests they believe their depth chart is solid enough without him or that they have other priorities to address.
The inclusion of future draft picks in this trade is a strategic play. While fans often focus on immediate impact, draft picks represent the lifeblood of NFL team-building. Acquiring two picks two years down the line shows Jacksonville’s commitment to sustained success rather than short-term fixes. Those picks may not seem glamorous now, but they provide ammunition for future moves or the opportunity to discover hidden gems.
For Bigsby, this trade offers a fresh start and a chance to carve out a role with a new team. Sometimes a player’s skills and style mesh better with a different system, coaching staff, or team culture. The Eagles may see in Bigsby a player who can contribute on special teams or in specific packages initially, with the possibility to expand his role if he performs well.
Philadelphia’s investment of two mid-to-late-round picks to acquire Bigsby suggests they have evaluated him carefully and believe the potential reward outweighs the cost. Unlike a high draft pick or established star, the price paid is relatively modest, which makes this a low-risk, potentially high-reward move. If Bigsby can develop into a reliable contributor or even a rotational starter, the Eagles will consider the trade a success.
This trade also highlights the nature of running back value in today’s NFL. Running backs, even those drafted in the earlier rounds, often have shorter windows of opportunity due to the physical demands of the position and the league’s increasing reliance on passing. Teams frequently rotate backs and look for depth to keep players fresh. This means that even talented backs like Bigsby need to seize opportunities quickly or find niches where they can thrive.
The Eagles may also be planning to utilize Bigsby’s skills in creative ways. With modern offenses valuing versatility, a back who can run between the tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and block effectively is valuable. Bigsby’s background suggests he can contribute in these areas, especially with the right coaching.
Looking ahead, both teams will monitor how this trade plays out in practice. The Jaguars will prepare for the 2026 draft knowing they have additional selections to use or trade, while the Eagles will integrate Bigsby into their roster and evaluate his progress through offseason workouts, training camp, and the regular season.
For Jaguars fans, this trade may be bittersweet. Bigsby was a promising player, but the NFL is a business where tough decisions must be made to improve the team. Turning a player who was not fitting into the immediate plans into future assets aligns with the long-term vision for sustained competitiveness.
Eagles fans, on the other hand, will watch with curiosity and hope that Bigsby can develop into a valuable contributor. The addition might not make headlines immediately, but it could pay dividends down the line, especially if injuries or performance issues arise in their current backfield.
Trades like this, involving mid-level players and draft picks, often fly under the radar but can have meaningful impacts. They reflect the chess-like nature of NFL roster management, where each move is a piece on the board contributing to a larger strategy.
In summary, the Jaguars trading Tank Bigsby to the Eagles for future draft picks is a move grounded in both teams’ needs and philosophies. Jacksonville gains valuable draft capital to continue building their roster, while Philadelphia acquires a young running back with potential upside. This trade exemplifies the dynamic and strategic nature of the NFL, where player potential, team fit, and long-term planning intersect. The ultimate success of this trade will depend on Bigsby’s development and how well the draft picks are utilized, but both franchises have positioned themselves to benefit in ways aligned with their current goals.
