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Eagles depth chart concerns are growing after Tank Bigsby was ruled out for an extended period and Saquon Barkley was listed as week to week following Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams. Philadelphia now faces significant uncertainty at running back ahead of its upcoming matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars in London.
Breaking Eagles Depth Chart News: Tank Bigsby Headed to IR
Bigsby is headed to injured reserve after suffering a core muscle injury during the closing moments of the Eagles’ game against the Rams, according to sources cited by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The running back is expected to undergo surgery at the Philadelphia-based Vincera Institute.
Sources told Rapoport that the hope is for Bigsby to return in six weeks or less. While that timeline offers some encouragement, the injury creates an immediate challenge for an Eagles offense already dealing with several health concerns.
Bigsby became Philadelphia’s primary running back for much of Sunday’s contest after Barkley exited early in the first quarter. He was injured after a short run to the right side, when he was tackled by Rams defensive lineman Byron Young.
Saquon Barkley Injury Adds More Pressure
Barkley’s hamstring injury is considered less serious than Bigsby’s issue. Sources told Rapoport and Mike Garafolo that the star running back is week to week and is not believed to have suffered a long-term injury.
However, his availability for Sunday’s game remains uncertain. Eagles coach Nick Sirianni did not confirm whether Barkley will be ready to face Jacksonville, saying only that the veteran would do everything possible to return.
“I know he’ll do everything he can do to get himself back,” Sirianni said. “Obviously, he’s a great player and a great teammate, and we always need him on the field.”
The timing is especially important because the Eagles are preparing for an international game in London. If Barkley cannot play, Philadelphia could be forced to rely on a much younger and less experienced running back group.
Will Shipley Be the Eagles’ Next Starting Running Back?
As of Monday, Will Shipley is the lone healthy running back on Philadelphia’s active roster. That makes him the most obvious candidate to handle an expanded role if Barkley is unavailable against the Jaguars.
Shipley could see increased work in early downs, passing situations and short-yardage packages. The exact distribution of carries will depend on Barkley’s recovery and any roster moves the Eagles make before the weekend.
Philadelphia has three running backs on its practice squad: Dameon Pierce, Carson Steele and Jaydon Blue. The Eagles may elevate one or more of those players to provide depth for the London matchup.
- Saquon Barkley: Hamstring injury, week to week
- Tank Bigsby: Core muscle injury, headed to injured reserve
- Will Shipley: Lone healthy back currently on the active roster
- Dameon Pierce, Carson Steele and Jaydon Blue: Practice squad options
Offensive Line Concerns Complicate Philadelphia’s Plans
The Eagles’ running back situation is not the only issue affecting the offensive depth chart. Left guard Cam Jurgens reported concussion symptoms Monday morning and entered the concussion protocol, according to a source cited by Garafolo.
Jurgens had moved from center to left guard after Landon Dickerson was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury. That means Philadelphia could face another reshuffle along the offensive line while attempting to replace key players in the running game.
Continuity up front is critical for any offense, particularly one that may need to lean more heavily on its ground attack. Changes at running back and along the line could affect blocking assignments, protection calls and the Eagles’ overall approach against Jacksonville.
What the Eagles Depth Chart Means for Sunday
The Eagles depth chart could look considerably different by kickoff. Barkley remains the most important variable, since his return would give Philadelphia an experienced centerpiece and reduce the pressure on Shipley and the practice squad additions.
If Barkley is ruled out, the Eagles may use a committee approach rather than place the entire workload on one player. Shipley would likely receive the largest role, while Pierce, Steele or Blue could be activated to handle selected packages.
For now, Philadelphia’s priority is managing the injuries without creating longer-term setbacks. Bigsby’s expected recovery timetable provides some optimism, but the Eagles must immediately prepare for the possibility of playing without both of their top available running backs.
FAQs About the Eagles Depth Chart
Is Tank Bigsby going to injured reserve?
Yes. Tank Bigsby is headed to injured reserve after suffering a core muscle injury against the Los Angeles Rams. He is expected to undergo surgery.
How long could Tank Bigsby be out?
Sources told NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport that the hope is for Bigsby to return in six weeks or less.
What is Saquon Barkley’s injury status?
Barkley is considered week to week with a hamstring injury. The injury is not viewed as long term, but his availability for Sunday’s London game is still uncertain.
Who is next on the Eagles running back depth chart?
Will Shipley is currently the lone healthy running back on Philadelphia’s active roster. Dameon Pierce, Carson Steele and Jaydon Blue are practice squad options.
