Tank Bigsby Trade: Jaguars Deal RB to Eagles for 2026 Picks

The Tank Bigsby trade has sent ripples through the NFL community, marking one of the first significant moves of the 2025 season. On September 8, 2025, the Jacksonville Jaguars dealt running back Tank Bigsby to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for 2026 fifth- and sixth-round draft picks. This trade not only reshapes the backfields of both teams but also highlights strategic priorities for the Jaguars’ future and the Eagles’ win-now mentality. Below, we break down the details, motivations, and implications of this headline-making move.

Trade Details: What the Jaguars and Eagles Exchanged

The core of the Tank Bigsby trade involves the Jaguars sending the 24-year-old running back to the Eagles in return for two future draft selections. Specifically, Philadelphia will part with a fifth-round pick (originally acquired from the San Francisco 49ers) and a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Notably, the fifth-round pick could upgrade to a fourth-round selection if edge rusher Bryce Huff achieves eight sacks in the 2025 season. This conditional clause adds an intriguing layer of value for Jacksonville.

For the Eagles, this move represents their sixth trade since training camp began, underscoring General Manager Howie Roseman’s aggressive approach to bolstering the roster for another Super Bowl run. Meanwhile, the Jaguars continue to accumulate draft capital, emphasizing long-term building under first-year GM James Gladstone.

Why the Jaguars Traded Tank Bigsby

Logjam at Running Back

Jacksonville’s decision to trade Bigsby stems from a surplus of talent in their backfield. Following a stellar Week 1 performance by Travis Etienne (143 rushing yards on 16 carries) and promising flashes from rookies Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen Jr., Bigsby became expendable. Despite rushing for 766 yards and 7 touchdowns in 2024, Bigsby averaged a mere 2.4 yards per carry in the season opener, further solidifying the team’s choice.

Focus on Future Draft Capital

The Jaguars are clearly prioritizing future-oriented moves. With Etienne entering the final year of his rookie contract, trading Bigsby for additional picks provides flexibility. Jacksonville now holds three top-100 selections and multiple Day Three choices in the 2026 draft, enabling them to address depth needs or package picks for higher-value assets.

Embracing a New Era Under Gladstone

GM James Gladstone has signaled a commitment to roster evolution since taking over. The trade aligns with his strategy of acquiring developmental talent while maintaining competitiveness. Rookie Bhayshul Tuten, a fourth-round pick known for his power-speed combo, is now poised to assume Bigsby’s role as the primary between-the-tackles runner.

Eagles’ Perspective: Bolstering Depth for a Title Defense

Addressing Running Back and Special Teams Needs

Philadelphia’s acquisition of Bigsby serves dual purposes. First, it adds depth behind star Saquon Barkley, who logged a massive 482 touches in 2024. With backup Will Shipley nursing a rib injury, Bigsby offers a physical, change-of-pace option alongside A.J. Dillon. Second, Bigsby’s experience as a kick returner (career average of 32.5 yards per return) addresses a critical need under the NFL’s new kickoff rules.

Howie Roseman’s Aggressive Team Building

Roseman’s flurry of trades—including additions like John Metchie III and Sam Howell—reflects a win-now mentality. The Eagles now possess 10 draft picks for 2026, giving them flexibility to continue wheeling and dealing.

Impact on Both Teams: Key Takeaways

For the Jaguars:

• Increased opportunities for rookies Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen Jr.
• Additional draft capital to support long-term rebuilding.
• Flexibility with Etienne’s contract situation entering free agency.

For the Eagles:

• Enhanced backfield depth behind Barkley to manage workload.
• Special teams upgrade with Bigsby’s kick return ability.
• Cost-controlled talent with two years remaining on Bigsby’s contract.

Table: Trade Overview

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Teams?

The Tank Bigsby trade exemplifies how NFL teams leverage timing and value to optimize their rosters. For Jacksonville, this move accelerates their youth movement and provides ammunition for future drafts. Meanwhile, Philadelphia fortifies its championship-caliber squad with a versatile weapon. As both teams navigate the season, this deal could prove pivotal in shaping their fortunes.

Conclusion: A Trade with Multifaceted Implications

The Tank Bigsby trade is more than a simple player-for-picks swap—it reflects calculated risks and strategic visions from both franchises. Jacksonville gains resources for sustained growth, while Philadelphia adds depth for another title run. As Bhayshul Tuten aims to shine in Duval County and Bigsby embraces his role in Philly, this trade will be fascinating to monitor. Stay tuned for more NFL insights and analysis!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why did the Jaguars trade Tank Bigsby?

The Jaguars traded Bigsdue to a crowded backfield featuring Travis Etienne and promising rookies Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen Jr. Additionally, the team prioritized acquiring future draft picks to build long-term depth.

2. What did the Eagles give up for Tank Bigsby?

Philadelphia sent a 2026 fifth-round pick (which could upgrade to a fourth-round pick based on Bryce Huff’s performance) and a 2026 sixth-round pick to Jacksonville in exchange for Bigsby.

3. How will Tank Bigsby fit with the Eagles?

Bigsby will serve as a backup to Saquon Barkley and contribute on special teams as a kick returner. His physical running style and return ability address key depth needs for Philadelphia.

4. What does this trade mean for Travis Etienne?

Etienne remains the Jaguars’ primary running back but is playing on his fifth-year option. With Bigsby gone, rookies Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen Jr. could see increased snaps behind him.

5. Are the Eagles done making trades?

General Manager Howie Roseman has been highly active, making six trades since training camp. With seven top-four round picks in 2026, Philadelphia may continue seeking upgrades.

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