RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 6 sourcesThe Eagles’ most important non-starter entering training camp may come down to two players with very different types of value: Tank Bigsby and Michael Carter II.
Carter has a strong case because Philadelphia’s secondary is built around flexibility. The Eagles have Quinyon Mitchell, Riq Woolen, Cooper DeJean, Andrew Mukuba, Marcus Epps, Kelee Ringo, Jakorian Bennett, and Jonathan Jones in a crowded defensive back group, but Carter’s ability to handle nickel and safety responsibilities gives Vic Fangio another movable piece. In 2025, Carter played 251 defensive snaps, posted 13 solo tackles, and allowed 12 receptions with a 94.4 passer rating when targeted. His role may not come with a starter label, but sub-package defenders can matter as much as traditional starters in modern defenses.
Still, Bigsby may be the better answer because of what he means to the Eagles’ offense.
Saquon Barkley remains the centerpiece of the backfield, but Philadelphia cannot afford to treat RB2 as a minor role. Bigsby appeared in 16 games for the Eagles last season, rushing 58 times for 344 yards and two touchdowns while averaging 5.9 yards per carry. He also caught three passes for 32 yards and added 187 yards on nine kickoff returns.
Those numbers matter because Bigsby has already shown he can produce in limited work. The Eagles need a backup running back who can keep the offense physical, protect Barkley from unnecessary wear, and remain useful on special teams. Will Shipley, Elijah Mitchell, Dameon Pierce, and Carson Steele give Philadelphia competition, but Bigsby’s combination of size, efficiency, and return value gives him a clear path to meaningful snaps.
The distinction is important. Carter may be the more versatile defensive chess piece, but Bigsby may be the non-starter whose role most directly affects the offense’s weekly rhythm. If he becomes a trusted complement to Barkley, Philadelphia can manage its star running back more intelligently and still maintain the physical identity that drives the offense.
That makes Bigsby the Eagles’ most important non-starter entering training camp.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles’ most important non-starter entering 2026 training camp
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