Philadelphia Eagles fans have a reason to be hopeful this season, as the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley has injected a new sense of optimism into the team's prospects. Through just two games, Barkley has proven to be an invaluable asset, logging 52 touches and showcasing a level of performance that harkens back to his best years.
Barkley has been remarkably consistent, racking up exactly 26 touches in each of the first two games. In Week 1, he averaged 4.5 yards per carry with 24 carries, and in Week 2, he maintained a strong pace with 4.3 yards per carry over 22 carries. This consistency has helped him achieve an overall average of 4.8 yards per touch this season, which is his highest since 2019.
The impressive stats have not gone unnoticed, and many in Philadelphia are already contemplating what this could mean for Barkley's future with the team. At his current pace, Barkley is on track to end his first season with the Eagles at a staggering 442 touches. The last time a running back reached such a mark was in 2014 when DeMarco Murray accomplished the feat during his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys. Interestingly, Murray joined the Eagles the following season, but his performance dipped, recording the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6.
Le'Veon Bell's experience also serves as a cautionary tale. Bell had 406 touches in 2017, followed by a dramatic holdout in 2018 for a lucrative contract extension. By 2019, Bell's yards-per-carry average had plummeted to one of the lowest among running backs with 250 or more carries at 3.3.
Eagles' management, however, seems acutely aware of the need to monitor Barkley's workload to avoid similar outcomes. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore emphasized the importance of keeping an eye on Barkley's usage, saying, "Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it." He added, "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 remains confident about his ability to handle a heavy workload. Addressing concerns, he stated, "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.” He further elaborated on how the team's staff helps monitor his condition, saying, "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."
Kellen Moore also praised Barkley's attitude and performance, remarking, "I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job."
As the season progresses, the balancing act of maximizing Barkley's talents while safeguarding his health will be critical. The Eagles are clearly in a prime position to capitalize on Barkley's skills, provided they can manage his workload effectively. In doing so, they hope to ensure that this promising start becomes the foundation for a successful season.