Philadelphia Eagles fans have a lot to look forward to this season with the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley. His performance through the first two games has already sparked excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.
Within these two appearances, Barkley has demonstrated his prowess by accumulating 52 touches—averaging out to an impressive 26 touches per game. Barkley's ability to maintain this heavy workload while producing solid results speaks volumes about his fitness and form. In Week 1, he dazzled with an average of 4.5 yards per carry on 24 carries. His Week 2 performance was similarly strong, averaging 4.3 yards per carry on 22 carries.
Overall, Barkley’s average stands at 4.8 yards per touch—his highest since his standout season in 2019. These numbers are not just nostalgic for fans but also a symbol of hope for the season’s prospects.
Award-Winning Work Ethic
Barkley's projection for the season suggests he could end up with 442 touches. This is a staggering figure when considering DeMarco Murray was the last NFL running back to reach this mark back in 2014. While playing for the Dallas Cowboys, Murray set this milestone before joining the Eagles, where he recorded the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6. History reveals the toll such a workload can take on a player, making the management of Barkley's touches a critical issue.
Le'Veon Bell is another example. After handling 406 touches in 2017, Bell held out in 2018 for a lucrative contract extension, only to return in 2019 with one of the lowest yards-per-carry averages at 3.3 among running backs with a minimum of 250 carries. These cautionary tales aren't lost on the Eagles’ management.
Management Perspective
Eagles' offensive coordinator Kellen Moore emphasized the need for vigilance. "Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it," Moore stated. He further elaborated, "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 also acknowledges the importance of managing his workload. "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 explained. His confidence in his preparation is apparent: "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.”
Moore is equally confident in Barkley's capabilities and resolve. "I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job," he said.
Balancing Act
The challenge for the Eagles will be to balance Barkley's desire for touches with the strategic necessity of preserving his health and effectiveness throughout the season. It’s a fine line to walk, but the early returns suggest that both Barkley and the Eagles' coaching staff are well aware of the stakes and are managing it with care.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how Barkley is utilized and how he performs under this managed workload. His explosive start has set the stage for a thrilling run, offering a glimmer of hope that he will not only meet but possibly exceed the expectations placed upon him when he joined the Eagles. The key will be sustainability—ensuring that Barkley remains as impactful in the closing weeks of the season as he has been in the opening salvo.