3 surprise cuts the Jaguars could make before 53-man roster deadline

No. 2 Jaguars surprise cut before the 53-man roster deadline: JaMycal Hasty, RB

It usually takes a couple of years — sometimes more — to grade a draft pick but the early signs point to running back Tank Bigsby being a home run. This is noteworthy because his selection seemed unnecessary given the time depth at the position.

See, the Jaguars already had Travis Etienne, who registered more than 1,400 yards from scrimmage last year. On top of that, they signed D'Ernest Johnson in free agency and gave JaMycal Hasty a two-year deal.

Several months later, drafting Bigsby looks like a smart move. The former Auburn Tiger had a fruitful training camp and was highly productive in the preseason, toting the rock 28 times for 159 yards. It's fair to say that he's earned the No. 2 job behind Etienne and will most likely see ample playing time in 2023.

Johnson, for his part, has also made the most of his opportunities and looks like a solid bet to be RB3. This leaves Hasty at the bottom of the depth chart. Last year, the Jaguars carried four running backs in the regular season, with Snoop Conner being a healthy scratch through most of the first half.

If the Jags once again keep four running backs, Hasty is safe but they could release him and create a bit over $1 million in space with $300,000 in dead money. It's true that Hasty was a reliable contributor subbing in for Etienne last year but the Jaguars could feel inclined to take a dive into the waiver wire or keep Conner. If that's the case, Hasty could be on the outside looking in.