Eagles Soar with New Addition: Saquon Barkley Brings Renewed Hope to Philadelphia
Philadelphia Eagles fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic this season, thanks to the infusion of talent brought by star running back Saquon Barkley. The celebrated back has burst onto the scene with his new team, capturing the attention of both supporters and analysts alike.
Barkley's performance through just two games has been nothing short of remarkable. He has amassed 52 touches, showcasing his reliability and consistency by handling exactly 26 touches in each game. This kind of workload highlights Barkley's ability to be a game-changer every time he has the ball in his hands.
Barkley’s individual game statistics further underline his impact. In Week 1, he averaged an impressive 4.5 yards per carry over 24 carries. The subsequent week saw a slight dip, but his 4.3 yards per carry on 22 carries remained above average. These numbers contribute to Barkley’s overall season average of 4.8 yards per touch—a figure that harkens back to his career-high 2019 season.
There’s a growing buzz around Barkley’s current pace, which suggests he could end the season with a staggering 442 touches. To put that into perspective, the last running back to reach such a number was DeMarco Murray in 2014 during his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys. Interestingly, Murray's subsequent stint with the Eagles turned out to be less successful, as he recorded the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6.
History has shown that managing workload is crucial for a running back’s longevity and effectiveness. Le'Veon Bell, for example, registered 406 touches in 2017, but issues surrounding his contract and a decreasing yards-per-carry average by 2019 underline the physical toll such a demanding role can exert.
Recognizing this, the Eagles’ coaching staff, including Offensive Coordinator Kellen Moore, is committed to vigilance regarding Barkley’s workload.
"Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it," Moore stated. "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."
For Barkley, his rigorous training and reliance on the Eagles' exceptional strength and conditioning staff provide reassurance that he can handle the demands placed upon him.
"I think we do a good job of managing that here," Barkley commented. "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's confidence in his preparation shines through in his attitude towards his heavy usage.
"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," Barkley emphasized.
The mutual respect between player and coach is palpable. Moore acknowledges Barkley’s desire for the ball and his exceptional contributions.
"I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job," said Moore.
As the season continues to unfold, all eyes will be on how the Eagles manage Barkley’s touches. His performance will be critical to Philadelphia’s success, and efficient management can ensure he remains a vital asset both now and in the future.
In the meantime, Eagles fans can relish every moment of Barkley's dynamic play, knowing he is prepared physically and mentally for the season’s challenges. With careful oversight by the coaching staff, Barkley has the potential to be not just a star for today but a cornerstone for the franchise's future aspirations.