Tank Bigsby NFL Draft Overview
Position: Running Back
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 210
School: Auburn
2023 NFL Draft: Tank Bigsby Scouting Report
First and foremost, Bigsby may have the best name in this draft. Cartavious “Tank” Bigsby has been the focal point of the Auburn Tigers offense for three years, going back to when he was a true freshman. As a true freshman, he recorded 918 yards from scrimmage and five total touchdowns on his way to winning the SEC Freshman of the Year award. His nickname is well-earned, as his hard rushing style was a bright spot in an otherwise lackluster Auburn offense.
To follow up his impressive freshman campaign, Bigsby put together a sophomore season for the books. His 1,099 rushing yards placed him fourth in the SEC, while his 10 rushing touchdowns were tied for seventh. His junior year included more of the same, with 1,150 yards from scrimmage and another 10 rushing touchdowns. At the conclusion of his junior season, Bigsby announced he would forego his senior year to declare for the NFL Draft.
Consequently, Bigsby was invited to the 2023 NFL Draft Combine, where he performed well. He did not set any land speed records, but his 4.56 40-yard dash is plenty fast for a running back of his size. Bigsby’s calling card has never been top-end speed, and he makes most of his money from solid vision and contact balance. He is impressively quick-footed for a back of his size, and bench pressed 225 21 times with ease. Yes, the bench press is not the only indicator of strength. Also yes, watching a dude nicknamed “Tank” bench press more than everyone you know is fun.
Strengths
- Vision to find holes despite porous offensive line;
- Solid burst through the hole, meets linebackers past the line of scrimmage frequently;
- Soft hands for someone of his size;
- Three-year contributor in the SEC;
- Prototypical size for a three-down role in the NFL;
- Above average lateral quickness;
- Not someone a safety wants to see in the hole.
Weaknesses
- Does not possess top-end speed;
- Was production from being force-fed touches or efficiency?
- Tries to turn every play into a homerun;
- Appeared to lose interest when down late at Auburn;
- Not utilized often in pass blocking.
NFL Comparison: Angry A.J. Dillon
Projection: Rounds 3-5
Best Fit: Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers
Bottom Line on Tank Bigsby
Similar to Sean Tucker, Bigsby is a throwback running back who would be taken much earlier 30 years ago. His aggressive running style and vision are an asset to any team that takes him, but his draft projection is deflated due to the devaluation of running backs recently. Auburn’s offense and entire program have been in turmoil Bigsby’s entire time in college, and he never reached his full potential due to his surroundings. Bigsby is the kind of prospect that will be a better pro than college player and is a value to whichever team drafts him.
Tank Bigsby Dynasty Value
Different sources have Bigsby anywhere from the fourth running back to the tenth running back in the class. Considering how loaded the class is with talent at running back, Bigsby is going to be an outstanding value in the second round of rookie drafts. After Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs, landing spot and draft capital will help shake out the rest of the standings. In my Superflex Mock Draft 1.0 he was available at the 2.04, and this feels appropriate depending on other factors. He profiles as a three-down back that can handle the work of the NFL. Best case scenario, he is David Montgomery with more juice. Worst case scenario, he is one of the best fantasy handcuffs in the NFL.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee – USA Today Sports
