Philadelphia, known for its passionate sports fans, is buzzing with excitement this season. The reason for their renewed hope? The arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley to the Philadelphia Eagles. Barkley's performance in the first two games of the season has not only met but exceeded the high expectations that accompanied his move.
Through just two games, Barkley has accumulated 52 touches, a clear indicator of his integral role in the Eagles' offensive strategy. Demonstrating remarkable consistency, Barkley notched exactly 26 touches in each game. His efficiency is equally impressive, averaging 4.5 yards per carry in Week 1 with 24 carries and 4.3 yards per carry in Week 2 with 22 carries. This performance elevates Barkley's overall average this season to an impressive 4.8 yards per touch, marking his highest since 2019.
Barkley's Workload and Historical Comparisons
Projected over the entire season, Barkley's current pace suggests he could end with a staggering 442 touches. This figure is significant as the last running back to achieve such a workload was DeMarco Murray in 2014, during his time with the Dallas Cowboys. When Murray later joined the Eagles, he struggled, recording the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6. Another comparison can be drawn with Le'Veon Bell, who had 406 touches in 2017. However, Bell faced challenges in subsequent years, including a notable holdout in 2018 for a lucrative contract extension and finishing 2019 with one of the lowest yards-per-carry averages at 3.3 among running backs with 250 or more carries.
Management's Conscious Effort
The Eagles' management is keenly aware of the need to monitor Barkley's workload to avoid similar pitfalls. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore has expressed the team's cautious approach. "Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it," Moore stated. Emphasizing the importance of a measured approach, 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's Perspective
For his part, Barkley remains unfazed by the heavy 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 is palpable as he further noted, "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."
Team and Player Alignment
The alignment between the Eagles' coaching staff and Barkley himself is evident. Moore's acknowledgment of Barkley's desire and ability to handle a significant number of touches underscores this synergy. "I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job," Moore remarked.
The Philadelphia Eagles are hopeful that Barkley can maintain his stellar performance throughout the season while avoiding the physical burnout that has plagued running backs with similar workloads in the past. With a combination of strategic management and Barkley's rigorous training and self-care regime, the team is optimistic about their star running back’s ability to sustain his high level of play.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Barkley and the Eagles, watching to see if they can strike the right balance between maximizing his impact on the field and maintaining his long-term health and productivity. It’s a delicate balance, but if executed correctly, it could lead to a standout season for both Barkley and his team, potentially changing the narrative for running backs handling heavy workloads in the NFL.