Tank Bigsby's NFL Future: Jaguars Depth Chart, Trade Rumors, & Will Shipley's Role
Tank Bigsby's Future in Jacksonville: Navigating the Jaguars' Running Back Landscape
Tank Bigsby entered the NFL with high hopes, selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. However, his rookie season presented a mixed bag, showcasing flashes of potential alongside inconsistencies that are typical for young running backs adjusting to the professional game. As we look towards the future, several factors will influence Bigsby's role and overall impact, including his performance, the Jaguars' evolving offensive strategy, and the emergence of new talent like Will Shipley.
Bigsby's Rookie Season: A Review
Bigsby's rookie year saw him primarily serving as a backup to Travis Etienne Jr. While he displayed moments of explosiveness and power, inconsistencies in pass protection and overall decision-making limited his playing time. He finished the season with modest rushing statistics, leaving many wondering about his long-term prospects with the team. One key area for improvement identified by coaches was his ability to consistently hit the correct running lanes and improve his vision in traffic. This is a common challenge for rookie running backs, but it's essential for earning trust and increased opportunities.
- Positives: Demonstrated power, capable of breaking tackles, showed potential in short-yardage situations.
- Negatives: Inconsistent pass protection, struggled with vision and decision-making at times, lacked consistent explosiveness.
The Jaguars' Running Back Depth Chart: A Crowded Backfield
The Jaguars' current running back depth chart presents a competitive landscape. Travis Etienne Jr. is the clear lead back, having established himself as a dynamic playmaker. However, the presence of other backs, including Bigsby and now Will Shipley, creates a dynamic where players must consistently perform to earn snaps. The coaching staff's philosophy appears to favor a committee approach, even with a clear starter, meaning that Bigsby and Shipley will likely have opportunities to contribute.
The addition of Will Shipley introduces a new layer of competition. Shipley, known for his versatility and pass-catching ability, adds a different dimension to the Jaguars' backfield. He's a strong receiver out of the backfield and a capable blocker, potentially making him a valuable asset on third downs and in passing situations. This versatility could impact Bigsby's opportunities, particularly if Bigsby doesn't significantly improve his pass-catching and pass-blocking skills. This dynamic sets the stage for an intense training camp battle to determine the pecking order behind Etienne.
Will Shipley's Impact: A Versatile Threat
Will Shipley's arrival brings a unique skillset to the Jaguars' running back room. Unlike Bigsby, who is primarily known for his power and inside running, Shipley excels as a receiver and a blocker. This versatility makes him a valuable asset in today's NFL, where running backs are increasingly required to contribute in the passing game. Shipley's college production at Clemson University showcased his ability to catch passes out of the backfield, run routes effectively, and provide reliable pass protection.
Shipley's impact extends beyond his on-field abilities. His work ethic and leadership qualities are also highly regarded. He's known for his dedication to film study, his attention to detail, and his ability to motivate teammates. These intangible qualities can have a positive influence on the entire running back group, pushing everyone to improve and compete at a higher level. From a coaching perspective, having a player like Shipley who is willing to embrace different roles and contribute in multiple ways is a significant advantage.
The potential impact of Shipley on Bigsby's role is significant. If Shipley quickly adapts to the NFL and demonstrates his versatility, he could eat into Bigsby's playing time, particularly on passing downs. Bigsby will need to showcase improvement in his receiving and blocking skills to maintain his relevance in the offense. The coaching staff will likely evaluate both players closely during training camp and preseason to determine who provides the most value to the team.
Trade Rumors: Is Bigsby on the Block?
While there haven't been any concrete reports of the Jaguars actively shopping Tank Bigsby, the addition of Will Shipley has inevitably fueled speculation about his future with the team. NFL teams are constantly evaluating their rosters and exploring potential trade opportunities, and a crowded running back room can often lead to players being moved. The Jaguars might consider trading Bigsby if they believe that Shipley offers a more versatile skillset and a better fit for their offensive scheme.
Several factors could influence the Jaguars' decision to trade Bigsby. First, his performance during training camp and preseason will be crucial. If he struggles to improve his pass-catching and pass-blocking skills, and if Shipley impresses, the Jaguars might be more inclined to move him. Second, the Jaguars' overall needs at other positions could also play a role. If they have a need at a position where another team is willing to offer a valuable asset in exchange for Bigsby, they might consider making a deal. Third, Bigsby's contract situation will also be a factor. As a relatively inexpensive player on his rookie contract, he could be an attractive trade target for teams looking to add a young, cost-controlled running back.
Potential trade destinations for Bigsby could include teams that are looking for a power back to complement their existing running game. Teams with uncertain running back situations due to injuries or underperformance might also be interested in acquiring Bigsby. However, the Jaguars would likely need to be realistic about the potential return they could receive for him. Given his limited production as a rookie and the uncertainty surrounding his development, they might only be able to fetch a late-round draft pick in exchange for his services.
Bigsby's Path to Success: What He Needs to Improve
Regardless of whether he remains with the Jaguars or is traded to another team, Tank Bigsby needs to focus on several key areas to maximize his potential and secure his future in the NFL. Improving his pass-catching and pass-blocking skills is paramount. In today's NFL, running backs who can contribute in the passing game are highly valued, and Bigsby's limited experience in this area is a significant weakness. He needs to work on his route running, his hands, and his ability to pick up blitzes and protect the quarterback.
Improving his vision and decision-making as a runner is also crucial. Bigsby needs to become better at identifying running lanes, making quick decisions, and adjusting his approach based on the defensive alignment. This requires a combination of film study, practice repetitions, and game experience. He also needs to improve his overall consistency. Flashes of brilliance are not enough; he needs to consistently perform at a high level to earn the trust of coaches and teammates.
Finally, Bigsby needs to maintain a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. The NFL is a highly competitive environment, and players who are willing to work hard and embrace challenges are more likely to succeed. Bigsby needs to stay focused on his goals, listen to his coaches, and continue to develop his skills. His dedication and perseverance will ultimately determine his long-term success in the league.
The Jaguars' Offensive Philosophy: Implications for Bigsby
The Jaguars' offensive philosophy under Coach Doug Pederson plays a crucial role in shaping the opportunities and usage of their running backs. Pederson's offenses have historically valued a balanced attack, utilizing both the run and the pass to keep defenses guessing. This approach, however, doesn't always translate to a consistent workload for multiple running backs.
Understanding how Pederson distributes carries and targets within the backfield is key to projecting Bigsby's potential role. In Philadelphia, Pederson often relied on a primary back, but also integrated complementary backs with specific skill sets. This could mean Etienne remains the primary ball carrier, with Shipley taking on third-down and pass-catching duties, potentially leaving Bigsby with a limited role focused on short-yardage or change-of-pace situations.
The Jaguars' commitment to establishing a strong running game will be a factor. If they prioritize the run, there may be more opportunities for Bigsby to contribute. However, if they lean more heavily on the passing game, his role could be diminished. Furthermore, the Jaguars' offensive line performance will significantly impact the success of the running game as a whole. A strong offensive line can create running lanes and opportunities for all of the running backs, while a struggling line can limit their effectiveness.
Analyzing Bigsby's Strengths and Weaknesses: A Detailed Breakdown
To truly understand Tank Bigsby's potential and future role, it's essential to delve deeper into his specific strengths and weaknesses. His strengths provide a foundation upon which he can build, while addressing his weaknesses is crucial for unlocking his full potential.
Strengths:
- Power and Strength: Bigsby possesses exceptional power and strength, allowing him to break tackles and gain yards after contact. This makes him a valuable asset in short-yardage situations and near the goal line.
- Physical Running Style: He runs with a physical and aggressive style, consistently driving forward and seeking contact. This can wear down defenses over the course of a game.
- Decisive Runner: When he sees a clear running lane, he hits it with decisiveness and acceleration, demonstrating the ability to gain significant yardage.
- Potential in Pass Protection: While still developing, Bigsby has the physical tools to become a capable pass protector. He has the strength and willingness to engage defenders.
Weaknesses:
- Pass-Catching: His pass-catching skills are underdeveloped. He needs to improve his route running, his hands, and his ability to secure catches in traffic.
- Vision and Patience: At times, Bigsby struggles to identify running lanes and can be impatient in allowing blocks to develop. This can lead to missed opportunities and negative plays.
- Pass Protection Technique: While willing, his pass protection technique needs refinement. He needs to improve his footwork, hand placement, and overall understanding of blocking schemes.
- Consistency: He lacks consistency in his overall performance. He needs to demonstrate the ability to consistently execute his assignments and make positive contributions to the offense.
Comparing Bigsby, Etienne, and Shipley: A Skillset Analysis
Understanding the unique skillsets of Bigsby, Etienne, and Shipley is crucial for predicting how the Jaguars will utilize their running backs. Each player brings a different set of strengths and weaknesses to the table, creating a dynamic and competitive backfield.
- Travis Etienne Jr.: Etienne is the clear lead back and a dynamic playmaker. His strengths include his speed, agility, and explosiveness. He is a threat to score from anywhere on the field and is a valuable asset in both the running and passing game. However, he is not as physically imposing as Bigsby and may not be as effective in short-yardage situations.
- Tank Bigsby: Bigsby is a power back who excels at running between the tackles and breaking tackles. His strengths include his power, strength, and physical running style. However, he is not as versatile as Etienne or Shipley and needs to improve his pass-catching and pass-blocking skills.
- Will Shipley: Shipley is a versatile back who can contribute in a variety of ways. His strengths include his pass-catching ability, his route running, and his pass-blocking skills. He is a valuable asset on third downs and in passing situations. He may not be as physically imposing as Bigsby, but he makes up for it with his versatility and intelligence.
The Jaguars will likely utilize all three running backs in different situations, depending on their strengths and the specific needs of the offense. Etienne will likely remain the primary ball carrier, but Bigsby and Shipley will have opportunities to contribute as well.
Coaching Staff's Perspective: What They Expect from Bigsby
Understanding the coaching staff's perspective on Tank Bigsby is crucial for predicting his future role. The coaches have a clear vision for how they want to utilize their running backs, and Bigsby needs to align with that vision to earn playing time.
The coaching staff likely values Bigsby's power and strength, recognizing his potential to be a valuable asset in short-yardage situations and near the goal line. They likely want him to continue to develop his skills in these areas and become a more consistent and reliable runner between the tackles.
More importantly, the coaches likely want to see Bigsby improve his pass-catching and pass-blocking skills. In today's NFL, running backs who can contribute in the passing game are highly valued, and Bigsby's limited experience in this area is a significant weakness. The coaches will likely be closely monitoring his progress in these areas during training camp and preseason.
Ultimately, the coaching staff wants to see Bigsby become a more complete and well-rounded running back. They want him to be a player who can contribute in all phases of the game and be a reliable and consistent performer. If he can demonstrate these qualities, he will have a bright future in Jacksonville.
The Long-Term Outlook: Bigsby's Potential Beyond 2024
While the immediate focus is on the 2024 season, it's important to consider Tank Bigsby's long-term potential and how his role might evolve over the next few years. His development trajectory, combined with the Jaguars' evolving needs, will determine his future in Jacksonville.
If Bigsby can significantly improve his pass-catching and pass-blocking skills, he could develop into a valuable all-purpose back. This would make him a more versatile and valuable asset to the Jaguars and increase his playing time. He could potentially become a key contributor on third downs and in passing situations, providing the Jaguars with a reliable option out of the backfield.
However, if he struggles to improve in these areas, his role could be limited to short-yardage situations and change-of-pace carries. This would make him a less valuable asset to the Jaguars and could potentially lead to him being replaced by another running back in the future. The performance of Will Shipley in the upcoming seasons will also be a determining factor in Bigsby's long-term prospects with the team. His success could limit Bigsby's opportunities, while his struggles could open doors for Bigsby to prove his worth.
Impact on Fantasy Football: Bigsby's Value and Projection
Tank Bigsby's fantasy football value is directly tied to his role and usage within the Jaguars' offense. Currently, his value is limited due to the presence of Travis Etienne Jr. and the uncertainty surrounding his own role.
In standard fantasy football leagues, where rushing yards and touchdowns are the primary scoring categories, Bigsby's value is likely to remain low unless Etienne suffers an injury. He is unlikely to receive enough carries to be a reliable starting option. In PPR (points per reception) leagues, his value is even lower due to his limited pass-catching ability.
However, Bigsby could be a valuable handcuff option for fantasy owners who draft Etienne. If Etienne were to get injured, Bigsby would likely see a significant increase in his workload and could become a viable starting option. His value could also increase if he demonstrates significant improvement in his pass-catching skills and earns a larger role in the passing game.
Ultimately, Bigsby's fantasy football value will depend on his performance and the Jaguars' offensive strategy. Fantasy owners should monitor his progress during training camp and preseason to get a better sense of his potential role and value.
Conclusion: The Uncertain Future of Tank Bigsby
Tank Bigsby's future with the Jacksonville Jaguars is currently uncertain. While he possesses the physical tools and potential to be a valuable contributor, he needs to improve his pass-catching, pass-blocking, and overall consistency to secure his role on the team. The emergence of Will Shipley adds another layer of competition, potentially impacting Bigsby's opportunities and creating trade speculation.
Ultimately, Bigsby's success will depend on his dedication, work ethic, and ability to adapt to the demands of the NFL. Whether he remains in Jacksonville or finds a new home, he needs to focus on developing his skills and maximizing his potential. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining his long-term future in the league. His performance during training camp and preseason will provide valuable insights into his progress and potential role.
The Jaguars' coaching staff will be closely monitoring Bigsby's development and evaluating his fit within their offensive scheme. Their decisions will ultimately determine his playing time and overall impact on the team. As the season progresses, fantasy football owners and NFL fans alike will be watching closely to see if Bigsby can overcome the challenges and establish himself as a valuable contributor.