Ground Game Reinforced: Eagles Trade for RB Tank Bigsby to Bolster Backfield Depth

Ground Game Reinforced: Eagles Trade for RB Tank Bigsby to Bolster Backfield Depth

The Philadelphia Eagles are proving once again why they are one of the NFL’s most aggressive and forward-thinking franchises. On September 8, 2025, just a week into the season, the reigning Super Bowl champions completed a deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars to acquire running back Tank Bigsby in exchange for 2026 fifth- and sixth-round draft picks.

The move comes at a critical time for the Eagles, who are looking to maintain offensive balance while defending their championship. After rookie running back Will Shipley suffered a rib injury in Week 1, Philadelphia’s depth at the position suddenly looked thin, despite already having big names like Saquon Barkley and AJ Dillon. Bigsby’s arrival gives the Birds another reliable option, ensuring that the running game remains a focal point of their high-powered offense.

Why the Eagles Made This Move

For general manager Howie Roseman, the decision was about more than just replacing an injured player—it was about strengthening an area that can make or break a season. With Barkley serving as the primary workhorse and Dillon offering bruising power in short-yardage situations, Bigsby adds youth, fresh legs, and a versatile skill set.

At just 23 years old, Bigsby was a third-round pick by the Jaguars in 2023. While his role in Jacksonville was inconsistent, he showed flashes of explosiveness and potential as both a runner and a receiver out of the backfield. Philadelphia now offers him a fresh start on a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

“Tank is a player we’ve admired since his college days,” Roseman said in a team press release. “He has the vision, burst, and physicality that fit perfectly into our offensive identity. With the challenges of a long season, you can never have too much depth at running back.”

How Bigsby Fits in Philadelphia

The Eagles’ running game is built on diversity. With Saquon Barkley, they have a do-it-all superstar capable of breaking long runs, catching passes, and blocking in pass protection. AJ Dillon provides punishing runs that wear down defenses late in games. Will Shipley, when healthy, brings speed and agility as a change-of-pace back.

Bigsby now joins this mix, giving head coach Nick Sirianni and offensive coordinator Kellen Moore another weapon to deploy. His downhill running style and ability to gain tough yards between the tackles should complement Barkley’s explosiveness, making Philadelphia’s backfield one of the most versatile in the league.

“Tank runs hard, and he has a chip on his shoulder,” Sirianni said. “That’s the kind of mentality we love here. He’s going to compete, and he’s going to help us win games.”

A Win-Win Trade

For Jacksonville, the trade clears a crowded running back room headlined by Travis Etienne Jr. and rookie standout Montrell Johnson Jr.. With limited touches available, Bigsby was the odd man out. By moving him, the Jaguars gained valuable draft capital while allowing Bigsby a chance to thrive in a system that values his strengths.

For Philadelphia, the cost was minimal. Late-round picks often struggle to make rosters on contending teams, so flipping them for a young back with NFL experience was a logical move. It’s the kind of calculated risk that has become Roseman’s trademark.

The Road Ahead

The timing of the trade couldn’t be better. Philadelphia’s next matchup is a high-profile Super Bowl rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs, where establishing the run will be critical to controlling the pace of the game. Bigsby may not see heavy usage immediately, but his presence gives the Eagles the luxury of keeping Barkley fresh while Shipley recovers.

Over the course of the season, Bigsby could become more than just insurance. If he adapts quickly to Philadelphia’s offensive system, he has the potential to carve out a meaningful role. His combination of youth and hunger could make him an X-factor in the Eagles’ pursuit of another Lombardi Trophy.

Final Thoughts

The Eagles’ acquisition of Tank Bigsby is another reminder of why the franchise remains at the top of the NFL. They don’t wait for problems to pile up—they solve them before they become critical. With Barkley leading the way, Dillon providing power, Shipley expected back soon, and now Bigsby joining the mix, Philadelphia’s backfield is as deep and dynamic as any in the league.

For fans, the message is clear: this team isn’t just satisfied with last year’s glory. They’re building for sustained dominance, one savvy move at a time. And as the season unfolds, Tank Bigsby may just prove to be the hidden gem that keeps the Eagles’ ground game flying high.