Coming off the Jacksonville Jaguars’ Week 1 win over the Carolina Panthers, GM James Gladstone made the decision to trade running back Tank Bigsby to the Philadelphia Eagles.

In return, the Jaguars received a fifth and sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

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So, at this time, why did the Jaguars make the decision to move on from Bigsby?

Well, part of that answer, as Gladstone discussed on a recent appearance on Jaguars HQ, was that the team has very “vivid roles” for how they plan to utilize rookie running backs Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen.

Another factor was that it was also about the roster numbers at the running back position. Getting four running backs active on game day can be a challenge, let alone getting four running backs regular reps each week.

“It’s obviously tough to get that many guys touches in a single game,” Gladstone said via Jaguars on SI. “And so we were able to get to a place where all four were active on Sunday. And obviously, through that, got a feel for roles and contributions.

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“And obviously the fact that Travis was able to do what he did was was pretty exciting, and obviously would like to continue to carry that forward, but at the same time, knowing that that can’t be each and every week, that you know you’re toting the rock that often or that frequently over the course of an 18 week season.”

While Bigsby saw his share of opportunities with the first team offense during training camp, it became clear in Week 1 that Travis Etienne was the top back–not only because of his 143-yard performance, but he also had 16 carries to Bigsby’s five.

Then, with Gladstone hand-picking Tuten and Allen in the draft, that left Bigsby as the odd man out.

Moving forward, Etienne will continue to be the lead back, but Tuten’s role will increase significantly, while Allen will likely see the field in more pass-heavy situations as a pass-catching option and pass protector.

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“I think that it was best for both parties to sort of take this next step, and I wish him nothing but the best,” Gladstone added. “I know during his time here, he was committed to the process and gave an urgent approach to the way in which he attacked the grass, and that was very much appreciated. But I think this is a reflection of how we feel about the shape of that room, you know, beyond him, and really what that could look like into this season.”

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: James Gladstone on why Jaguars traded RB Tank Bigsby to Eagles