Jaguars Fourth Round Pick Is Making Some Noise
When the Jacksonville Jaguars selected Virginia Tech running back Bhayshul Tuten in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, many saw this move as just another addition to their depth in the backfield. The Jaguars already had veterans Travis Etienne Jr. and Tank Bigsby leading as their one-two punch for running backs, with many already locking those two in as the starters before training camp even started. The Jaguars also brought in two more rushing rookies into camp with LeQuint Allen and Ja’Quinden Jackson, making Tuten have even more competition to battle through to prove he can make a difference in Jacksonville. However, Bhayshul Tuten has been up to the challenge, surprising many throughout training camp and the start of the preseason with his talent.
Although Etienne had a disappointing 2024 season, he was anticipated as the only receiving back option in this Jaguars unit entering camp. However, Tuten made some splashes in the first preseason action against the Pittsburgh Steelers to prove that there may be another receiving back option than the aging veteran. Tuten had a powerful eight-yard touchdown while making two catches for 16 yards, giving an average of eight yards per catch. Throughout the game, Tuten showcased his great ability to make space and create separation in the open field. If Tuten continues to showcase his receiving talents along with a good running game, Etienne could be in some trouble for a starting job.
Head coach Liam Coen has praised Bhayshul Tuten throughout camp. After his impressive preseason outing, Coen was happy with Tuten’s physicality and ball security. Tuten is also known for his speed, as he ran a 4.32-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. By being that fast and having strong physical aspects, the Jaguars have an absolute talent at the position that is just waiting to reach his potential. Tuten has brought the physicality back to the Jaguars running back unit that was seemingly missing all of 2024, with his touchdown against the Steelers proving that he is hard to take down as Tuten dragged defenders across the goal line.
The Jaguars still have more preseason games to play, with a matchup against the New Orleans Saints this weekend. Tuten will have to continue to perform well to prove to the coaches that he deserves a spot on the final 53-man roster. While he’s come out of the gate swinging, with a great performance against the Steelers and excelled in training camp, Tuten will need more to secure snaps in the regular season. At the end of the day, it will be Liam Coen’s decision on whether Tuten will be a key piece of this Jaguars rushing attack in the future.
