Philadelphia Eagles fans have found renewed hope and excitement with the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley this season. Through just two games, Barkley has already made an impressive impact, accumulating 52 touches and showing the kind of performance that could define the Eagles' season.
A Strong Start
Barkley's production has been consistent in the early going. He has registered exactly 26 touches in each of the first two games. In Week 1, Barkley rushed 24 times, averaging 4.5 yards per carry, and in Week 2, he continued to display his prowess with 22 carries, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. This brings his overall average to 4.8 yards per touch, marking his highest since the 2019 season. These figures underscore not just Barkley's skill but also his potential to elevate the Eagles’ offense to new heights.
Historical Comparisons
Based on his current pace, Barkley is projected to finish his first season in Philadelphia with 442 touches. This number compares favorably to some historic workloads. The last running back to reach 442 touches in a season was DeMarco Murray in 2014 during his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys. Ironically, Murray subsequently joined the Eagles but could not replicate his previous success, recording the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6. Another notable comparison is Le'Veon Bell, who had 406 touches in 2017 but saw his effectiveness decline post-2017, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry in 2019.
Managing the Workload
Eagles' management is acutely aware of the demands placed on a high-usage running back like Barkley. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore expressed understanding and caution regarding the workload. "Obviously, from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it." Moore acknowledges the need for careful management: "We certainly recognize that and understand that aspect of it. We've got to do at times a better job of that as the game goes on, especially when you look at it more from a week-to-week perspective."
Barkley himself, a consummate professional, is confident in his ability to handle the load. "I think we do a good job of managing that here. Whether I do that on my own or take care of my body. Our guys in the strength room and training room do a really great job of monitoring that." Barkley added, "I have no worries about that. That's why I train the way I do in the offseason, and the work I do in camp and in season to be able to take on the workload."
A Key Figure
Barkley's arrival and early performance have positioned him as a key figure in the Eagles' quest for success this season. Moore noted Barkley's readiness and dedication, saying, "I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job." This confidence from both player and coaching staff could be instrumental in navigating the challenges of the NFL season.
While the excitement is palpable among the fans, the health and effectiveness of Barkley will be an ongoing consideration. The Eagles' strategy to possibly alleviate some of his workload as the season progresses is a testament to their holistic approach to performance and player welfare. The balance between maximizing Barkley’s impact and ensuring his longevity will be crucial.
In sum, Saquon Barkley’s start with the Philadelphia Eagles illustrates both promise and a cautious optimism. His performance so far has been exemplary, stirring the hopes of fans and setting high expectations for the remainder of the season. As the Eagles move forward, the careful management of Barkley's workload will be vital, aiming to leverage his talents without compromising his health—ensuring that he remains a dynamic force on the field.