Tank Bigsby to the Eagles: A Special Teams Game-Changer or Just Another Roster Move?
The Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl LIX victory, are known for their aggressive roster management under General Manager Howie Roseman. Their recent acquisition of running back Tank Bigsby from the Jacksonville Jaguars has sparked debate: Is this a strategic move to bolster special teams and running back depth, or simply another transaction in a constantly evolving roster? With the Eagles trading away 2026 fifth- and sixth-round picks for Bigsby, the pressure is on for him to make an immediate impact.
The State of the Eagles’ Backfield
The Eagles’ running back situation appeared stable heading into the 2025 season. Saquon Barkley, coming off a historic 2,000-yard season, is the undisputed lead back. Behind him, the team had high hopes for Will Shipley, a 2024 fourth-round pick, and A.J. Dillon, a proven power back. However, Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys brought unexpected challenges. Shipley suffered a rib injury, and Ben VanSumeren, expected to contribute at fullback, was lost for the season with a knee injury. This sudden depletion of depth forced the Eagles to act swiftly.
According to the Eagles’ depth chart, Barkley is the starter, followed by Shipley, Bigsby, and Dillon. While Barkley is expected to carry the load, the Eagles may want to reduce his workload after he had 480 touches in the 2024 regular season and the Super Bowl run.
Bigsby’s Resume: A Glimpse of Potential
Tank Bigsby, a third-round pick by the Jaguars in 2023, showcased flashes of potential during his time in Jacksonville. In 2024, he rushed for 766 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging a respectable 4.6 yards per carry. While these numbers aren’t eye-popping, they demonstrate his ability to contribute effectively when given the opportunity.
However, Bigsby’s role diminished in the Jaguars’ Week 1 game against the Carolina Panthers, where he had just five carries for 12 yards. New coach Liam Coen opted to use Travis Etienne as the lead back, with Bigsby splitting snaps with rookies Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen. This limited usage made Bigsby expendable, paving the way for the Eagles to swoop in.
Special Teams Boost: A Key Factor
The Eagles’ interest in Bigsby extends beyond his potential as a running back. Special teams coordinator Michael Clay has been impressed by Bigsby’s abilities as a kick returner. With the NFL’s new kickoff rules emphasizing returns, a dynamic return specialist has become even more valuable.
In limited opportunities with the Jaguars, Bigsby averaged 28.5 yards per kick return. In 2024, he averaged 32.5 yards per return on six attempts. This explosiveness could provide the Eagles with a significant advantage in field position.
Eagles coach Nick Sirianni has stated that Bigsby will be the primary kickoff returner. The Eagles struggled with kickoff returns in Week 1 against the Cowboys. Shipley muffed his first attempt, and the team’s average starting field position was a mere 29.3 yards. Bigsby’s arrival aims to rectify this weakness and inject some much-needed spark into the return game.
The Roster Ripple Effect
To make room for Bigsby on the 53-man roster, the Eagles waived defensive tackle Gabe Hall. This move was somewhat surprising, as Hall had been active for the Week 1 game against the Cowboys. However, the Eagles prioritized adding Bigsby’s versatility to the roster.
The Eagles also signed outside linebacker Patrick Johnson to the active roster. They added running back Montrell Johnson and offensive lineman Hollin Pierce to the practice squad and released wide receiver Elijah Cooks from the practice squad.
Expert Opinions and Tactical Fit
Eagles offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo sees Bigsby as a “dynamic player” who can contribute in various ways. While Saquon Barkley remains the primary offensive weapon, Bigsby can provide a change of pace and spell Barkley when needed.
Michael Clay, the special teams coordinator, highlighted Bigsby’s “natural vision and feel” as a kickoff returner. Clay noted the increased value of a strong returner under the new kickoff rules. He expressed excitement about incorporating Bigsby into the Eagles’ special teams unit.
The Financial Angle
Bigsby is under contract for the next two seasons, providing the Eagles with cost control at the running back position. With Barkley’s contract carrying significant financial implications, having affordable depth behind him is crucial.
The Eagles are essentially paying $2.97 million for Shipley and Bigsby in 2026, making the position financially sustainable. The team also has a projected 10 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, mitigating the impact of trading away two Day 3 picks for Bigsby.
Verdict: A Calculated Gamble
The acquisition of Tank Bigsby appears to be a calculated gamble by the Philadelphia Eagles. While his role as a running back may be limited behind Saquon Barkley, his potential as a kick returner and the need for depth due to injuries make him a valuable addition.
The Eagles’ front office, known for their forward-thinking approach, recognized the increased importance of special teams under the new kickoff rules. By acquiring Bigsby, they addressed a potential weakness and added a player with the skills to make a difference.
Whether Tank Bigsby becomes a special teams game-changer or simply another roster move remains to be seen. However, the Eagles have clearly identified a need and taken decisive action to address it. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to watch how Bigsby integrates into the team and contributes to their quest for another Super Bowl title.