Former Auburn running back Tank Bigsby was a big-time recruit coming out of high school and was an early producer for the Tigers during his three-year career in the SEC. His college resume set him up to be the 88th overall pick (third round) to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2023 NFL Draft.
While former first-round running back Travis Etienne is the clear starter in Trevor Lawrence's offense, Bigsby could have fantasy value in his rookie campaign.
Is Bigsby a good fit for the Jaguars and what can we expect from him as a rookie in fantasy football? Let's dive in.
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What Did Tank Bigsby Accomplish At Auburn?
As a true freshman in the SEC, Bigsby rushed 138 times for 834 yards (6.0 YPC) and five touchdowns. He added 11 receptions for 84 yards. His efficiency declined in his 2021 sophomore season, but he still posted 1,099 yards on 223 carries (4.9 YPC), finding the end zone 10 times on the ground. He caught 22 passes for an additional 184 yards.
His 2022 junior campaign was filled with ups and downs, but the Auburn offense was one of the worst units in the SEC and the offensive line play was mediocre -- at best. Bigsby saw 179 carries for 970 yards (5.4 YPC) and scored 10 times and caught a career-high 30 passes for 180 yards. In the context of the Tigers' offense, it was far from a poor showing. That said, he never emerged as the elite rusher he was expected to be after his freshman season.
Bigsby weighed in at 210 pounds at the 2023 NFL Combine but did not run the 40-yard dash. At his Pro Day, he recorded an uninspiring 4.56 40-time, but his 10-yard split (1.56) and 20-yard split (2.6) times were among the best in the class. Ultimately, he did enough to be a day-two pick, which is all that matters for fantasy managers.
Is Tank Bigsby A Good Fit For The Jaguars?
While Bigby won't be the lead back in Jacksonville, there's a chance he could be the second piece of a "one-two" punch for Doug Pederson. Most NFL offenses feature a committee of backs instead of one true workhorse, so Bigby will have a chance to possess real flex appeal in 2023 fantasy leagues.
He's worth a second-round selection in dynasty rookie drafts even if he is just a premier handcuff. The Jaguars' offense came alive at the end of Lawrence's sophomore campaign, and with Calvin Ridley joining the unit in 2023, it could be one of the elite attacks next season.
If Etienne misses even a game or two, Bigsby could have RB1 upside as a spot starter during his rookie campaign.
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