The Philadelphia Eagles have acquired running back and kick returner Tank Bigsby through a trade, sending 2026 fifth- and sixth-round draft picks in exchange. Bigsby, who was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, arrived in Philadelphia this week and has begun integrating with his new team.
“I was like, ‘OK, let’s go,'” Bigsby said about his reaction to getting traded. “Just go get an opportunity to go do something great. So I was happy about it. Thanked the Lord about it, I can’t sit there and complain. It’s the next opportunity. I’m with the Eagles now, let’s go.”
Bigsby rushed for 766 yards and scored seven touchdowns last season. He is expected to contribute as both a running back and a kick returner for the Eagles.
Head Coach Nick Sirianni expressed enthusiasm for adding Bigsby to the roster. “I just love the player,” Sirianni said. “We see a vision for the player and of how we can use him and the things that he can do and the skill set that he has. … He’s a really good runner and so excited to add that depth to this room.”
Bigsby will join a running back group that includes All-Pro Saquon Barkley, second-year player Will Shipley, and veteran A.J. Dillon. He spoke highly of Barkley, referring to him as “the best in the league,” and noted his eagerness to learn from him.
Offensive Coordinator Kevin Patullo commented on how Bigsby fits into their plans: “He’s a dynamic player and he’s going to add depth to our roster,” Patullo said. “I think he can make some plays for us offensively and we can use him in different ways.”
Last season, Bigsby also made an impact as a kickoff returner under new NFL rules, averaging 32.5 yards per return on six attempts while playing for Jacksonville.
Special Teams Coordinator Michael Clay noted Bigsby’s abilities: “As I watch film across the league the last couple years, he’s popped up a lot in Jacksonville in terms of those big 40-yard chunk runs,” Clay said. “Being a running back, he has that natural vision and feel when it comes to return the ball.”
With his arrival in Philadelphia coming quickly before game preparations begin each week, Bigsby remains focused on adapting.
“I’m just here to do whatever they ask me to do and do my job at the full potential,” Bigsby said. “So whatever they ask me to do, just be on my best at that.” — Written by Matt Ryan
