The Philadelphia Eagles’ acquisition of Tank Bigsby has sparked debate: a calculated risk or an overpay? In a move that has rippled through the league just after Week 1 concluded, the Eagles traded two 2026 NFL Draft picks to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the services of the running back. The question now is whether this investment will pay dividends, or if Howie Roseman has once again outsmarted himself.
Trade Details and Rationale
According to reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Eagles sent a fifth-round and a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to Jacksonville. A notable clause in the trade stipulates that the fifth-round pick could escalate to a fourth-round pick if Eagles pass rusher Bryce Huff achieves eight sacks during the 2025 season. This condition adds an intriguing layer to the deal, linking Bigsby’s acquisition to Huff’s performance.
Eagles’ Perspective: Bolstering Depth and Special Teams
The Eagles’ motivations behind this trade are multifaceted. Primarily, the move aims to reinforce the running back depth chart behind star Saquon Barkley. The need for a reliable backup became apparent after Will Shipley sustained a rib injury during the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. As reported, the Eagles were also drawn to Bigsby’s potential in the kickoff return game. In 2024, Bigsby averaged an impressive 32.5 yards per return on six attempts. With the NFL’s evolving kickoff rules, which were adjusted in 2024 and again in 2025, the value of a dynamic return specialist has increased significantly. Last season, the Eagles ranked a mediocre 23rd in kickoff return average, highlighting an area ripe for improvement. The acquisition also provides the Eagles with cost control at the running back position behind Barkley for the next two seasons.
Jaguars’ Perspective: A Crowded Backfield
For the Jacksonville Jaguars, trading Bigsby was a strategic decision driven by the emergence of other talents in their backfield. While Bigsby led the team in 2024 with 766 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, his role diminished in the 2025 season opener. He received only five carries for 12 yards, while Travis Etienne Jr. had a strong performance and rookie Bhayshul Tuten showcased his potential. This shift in the depth chart made Bigsby more expendable, particularly given reported concerns about his pass-catching abilities and blitz pickup skills. By trading Bigsby, the Jaguars secured two future draft picks, adding valuable assets for a player whose role was becoming increasingly limited.
Immediate Impact and Future Implications
Eagles: Enhanced Roster, Uncertain Roles
The trade immediately enhances the Eagles’ roster on both offense and special teams. Bigsby is expected to provide fresh legs to complement Saquon Barkley and potentially take on a significant role in kickoff returns. The move also provides the Eagles with a younger, cost-controlled option at running back for the next two seasons. However, the impact on Will Shipley’s and AJ Dillon’s snap counts remains uncertain. These players, who were previously vying for backup roles, may now see their opportunities further limited.
Jaguars: Solidifying the Pecking Order
For the Jaguars, the trade solidifies Travis Etienne Jr.’s position as the primary running back and creates more opportunities for rookie Bhayshul Tuten. The acquisition of two draft picks provides the Jaguars with additional resources to address other needs on their roster. By trading Bigsby, they have effectively streamlined their backfield and gained future assets.
Analyzing the Trade Grade
Did the Eagles Overpay?
Assessing whether the Eagles overpaid for Tank Bigsby requires a nuanced analysis. On the surface, surrendering a fifth-round and a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft may not seem like a significant price to pay. However, the potential upgrade of the fifth-round pick to a fourth-round pick based on Bryce Huff’s sack total adds a layer of complexity. If Huff reaches eight sacks, the Eagles will have essentially given up a fourth-round pick for Bigsby, which is a considerable investment for a backup running back and special teams contributor. Considering the Eagles’ needs and Bigsby’s potential in both the running game and kickoff returns, the trade could be viewed as a worthwhile gamble. However, if Bigsby fails to make a significant impact, the Eagles may be criticized for overspending.
Jaguars’ Trade Grade: Capitalizing on Value
From the Jaguars’ perspective, the trade appears to be a shrewd move. They were able to acquire two future draft picks for a player whose role was diminishing. Given the emergence of Travis Etienne Jr. and Bhayshul Tuten, Bigsby had become expendable. By capitalizing on his value, the Jaguars have added valuable assets that can be used to address other needs on their roster. This trade allows them to build for the future while solidifying their current depth chart.
The Bigsby Gamble
Ultimately, the success of this trade will depend on Tank Bigsby’s performance in Philadelphia and the contributions of the players selected with the draft picks acquired by Jacksonville. If Bigsby thrives in his new role and helps the Eagles improve their running game and special teams, the trade will be deemed a success. However, if he struggles to make an impact, the Eagles may face criticism for overpaying. For the Jaguars, the trade represents a strategic move to capitalize on value and build for the future. Only time will tell whether this trade will be a win-win for both teams.
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