Eagles RB Tank Bigsby to have core muscle surgery, headed to IR

The Eagles' backfield took a hit Monday when running back Tank Bigsby was diagnosed with a core muscle injury that will require surgery, per Ian Rapoport. Bigsby is headed to injured reserve, with the team hopeful he can return in six weeks or shorter.

Bigsby was hurt Sunday in Philadelphia's win over the Rams, and the decision to operate rather than manage the injury conservatively points to a multi-week absence. The six-week-or-less target would put a potential return somewhere around mid-November, depending on how the recovery progresses.

The timing is significant for an Eagles ground game that leans heavily on its backfield rotation. With Bigsby out, the depth behind the lead back thins, and the team will lean on its next options to carry the load while he rehabs. Philadelphia's offense has leaned on the run to balance its attack, so losing a rotational piece for a month-plus is a real adjustment for the room.

Bigsby's absence also factors into the Eagles' short-term roster math as they manage the 53-man group through the coming weeks. The IR designation opens a roster spot while he recovers, and the team will decide how to fill it in the interim.