The Eagles’ backfield took another hit Monday, with backup running back Tank Bigsby headed to injured reserve because of a core muscle injury, according to NFL Network.
Bigsby picked up the injury in Sunday’s 24-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, and the report says the Eagles are hoping he can make it back in six weeks or less. That’s the latest problem for a running back group already dealing with uncertainty.
Saquon Barkley missed most of the Rams game after hurting his hamstring on the second drive, and his availability for Sunday’s matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars in London was still unclear as of Monday evening. If Barkley can’t go, the Eagles would be in a thin spot at running back.
Third-year back Will Shipley could be in line to start against Jacksonville. The Eagles are also likely to add either Dameon Pierce or Carson Steele to the 53-man roster to help patch the rotation over the next six weeks.
For an offense already searching for answers, the injuries could make life even harder.
Bigsby’s early-season production was modest but useful: 28 carries for 91 yards and a touchdown over the first four weeks. Against the Rams, he had 55 rushing yards and averaged 3.9 yards per touch.
Shipley has handled 15 carries for 51 yards as the No. 3 back. He’s shown enough to be considered a solid option, but starting him against the Jaguars would still be a worrying spot for the Eagles.
Steele stood out for the Eagles during the preseason this summer, while Pierce impressed during camp when he was healthy. Former Cowboys running back Jaydon Blue is also on the practice squad, but he sits behind Steele and Pierce in the pecking order.
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