Tank Bigsby’s Journey: From Auburn to Jacksonville and Beyond

The trajectory of Tank Bigsby’s career has been nothing short of intriguing, with twists and turns that have not only shaped his path but have also made him one of the most talked-about prospects in the NFL. Known for his versatility, strength, and agility, Bigsby’s rise to prominence began long before he was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, the latest twist—his potential decision to leave the Jaguars and contemplate a return to Auburn in the 2025 NFL Draft—has stirred up conversations about his career, his future in the NFL, and the legacy of his time at both Auburn and Jacksonville.

The Early Days: Auburn’s Star Running Back

Tank Bigsby’s college football career began with a bang at Auburn University. From the moment he stepped onto the field as a freshman, he displayed flashes of brilliance. A 6-foot, 210-pound running back from Atlanta, Georgia, Bigsby was heralded as one of the top recruits in the nation and immediately became a cornerstone of Auburn’s offensive plans.

During his freshman season in 2020, Bigsby accumulated 834 rushing yards on 138 carries, averaging 6.0 yards per carry. He was a key component of an Auburn offense that struggled at times, but Bigsby’s individual performance kept the Tigers competitive. He showcased his ability to break tackles, his patience in setting up blocks, and his vision for finding gaps in the defense. By the end of his sophomore season, he had become one of the premier running backs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

In 2021, Bigsby continued his ascent as one of the most talented backs in college football. He posted over 1,000 yards rushing despite playing behind a less-than-ideal offensive line and amidst coaching changes. His ability to make something out of nothing and to maintain a high level of production in difficult circumstances further solidified his status as a star player for Auburn.

But despite his success at Auburn, Bigsby’s time there was also marked by frustration with the team’s lack of consistency. The Tigers faced struggles in the form of coaching changes, shifting schemes, and an inability to build around their most talented player. Despite these challenges, Bigsby remained loyal to Auburn for three years, showing that he was not only a talented player but also a committed leader for the program.

Transition to the NFL: Joining the Jacksonville Jaguars

After three seasons at Auburn, Tank Bigsby declared for the 2023 NFL Draft, following in the footsteps of many successful college players. His decision was driven by the desire to test his skills at the highest level, and with his size, vision, and playmaking ability, it was clear that he had the potential to thrive in the NFL.

The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Bigsby in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, recognizing his ability to contribute in a committee backfield and possibly take over as a feature back in the future. The Jaguars, who had undergone a major rebuilding process and were coming off a playoff appearance, were looking to pair their young quarterback Trevor Lawrence with a dynamic running game. Bigsby’s blend of power and finesse made him an ideal fit for the Jaguars’ offense, which under the leadership of head coach Doug Pederson, was looking to balance a pass-heavy attack with a strong running game.

Bigsby’s rookie season in Jacksonville started with high expectations. He entered a backfield that included established players like Travis Etienne, and the Jaguars hoped that the two backs could complement each other. Bigsby’s early appearances were marked by flashes of brilliance, as he demonstrated his vision, quickness, and power. However, as the season wore on, it became evident that Bigsby was struggling to carve out a consistent role in the offense. His lack of experience at the NFL level, combined with the emergence of Etienne as the primary back, led to a more limited workload for Bigsby.

Although his playing time was inconsistent, Bigsby still showed potential in his limited touches. He displayed his ability to break off big runs, especially in short-yardage situations, and he was effective as a receiving back, contributing out of the backfield. However, the transition to the NFL was challenging, as the competition at the professional level was significantly different from the college game.

Throughout the 2023 season, Bigsby was in a developmental phase. Jaguars coaches were patient, knowing that the physical tools were there, but Bigsby needed time to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. The Jaguars’ approach with Bigsby seemed to mirror the trend of drafting and developing young running backs, especially given the position’s high turnover rate and the need to preserve the longevity of players. But for all his potential, Bigsby found himself in a crowded backfield, with his role as a rookie somewhat unclear.

The Decision to Leave Jacksonville

Fast forward to January 2025, and a new development has emerged in Bigsby’s career. After two seasons with the Jaguars, the running back is reportedly considering leaving the NFL and returning to his roots: Auburn. This decision has raised eyebrows throughout the NFL, the Auburn fanbase, and college football at large. Why would a player with NFL potential consider stepping away from the professional ranks to return to college football?

There are several factors that could be influencing Bigsby’s decision. First, there’s the question of opportunity. In his two years with the Jaguars, Bigsby’s role has not expanded in the way that many had anticipated. Despite his talent, he has struggled to earn significant snaps, as Etienne has emerged as the feature back in Jacksonville. In the NFL, running backs often have shorter careers, and as teams look to keep their rosters balanced, Bigsby may have found himself stuck in a crowded backfield where his chances to shine are limited.

Another possible factor is the desire to play more consistently. In the college ranks, Bigsby was the focal point of Auburn’s offense and carried the load week in and week out. At Auburn, he was a workhorse, a key contributor, and a player who could take over games. In the NFL, with its emphasis on running back committees, the role of a feature back is often more elusive, and players like Bigsby may struggle to carve out a consistent niche in the offense.

The Pull of Auburn: A Return to Glory

Auburn could represent an ideal place for Bigsby to reclaim the spotlight and reestablish his dominance. The Tigers are a program that has produced numerous NFL-caliber players over the years, and Bigsby would be welcomed back with open arms by the Auburn faithful. The return to a familiar environment, with a coaching staff that understands his strengths, could allow Bigsby to once again showcase his full potential.

Additionally, the college game is more forgiving in terms of the workload a running back can handle. At Auburn, Bigsby could be the clear-cut feature back once again, which could serve as an audition for the next level. By dominating at the college level once more, he could enhance his draft stock and potentially re-enter the NFL draft with a fresh perspective and renewed confidence.

There’s also the emotional pull of returning to his roots. Bigsby’s time at Auburn was marked by his strong connection with the program, the fans, and his teammates. It was where he became a household name, and going back could provide him with the opportunity to finish his college career on a high note. Auburn fans would likely embrace his return, and Bigsby could be a leader on the field, a mentor to the younger players, and an ambassador for the program.

What Would This Mean for His NFL Career?

If Tank Bigsby does decide to return to Auburn, it would raise important questions about his future in the NFL. Would he be able to re-enter the draft after taking another year of college eligibility? The NFL draft rules state that a player who has already been drafted and signed to an NFL team would not be eligible to re-enter the draft, but there could be exceptions, depending on the situation.

Bigsby’s decision would also have long-term implications for his professional career. While the NFL could still be an option in the future, his move could be viewed as a step back, as most players use college football as a stepping stone to the professional ranks. However, if Bigsby can excel in his return to Auburn and demonstrate that he can still be a top-tier back, his stock could rise again, and he may be able to secure a more prominent role in the NFL after his college resurgence.