As the Philadelphia Eagles kick off what promises to be an exhilarating season, the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley has sparked considerable excitement among fans and analysts alike. Through just two games, Barkley has already proven his value by amassing 52 touches, precisely 26 in each game, demonstrating both consistency and endurance.
In his debut, Barkley showcased his formidable skills by averaging 4.5 yards per carry on 24 carries in Week 1. He followed up with another strong performance in Week 2, averaging 4.3 yards per carry on 22 carries. These performances have set a standard for Barkley, lifting his overall average this season to an impressive 4.8 yards per touch, his highest since 2019.
Barkley's current pace suggests he could end his first season in Philadelphia with a staggering 442 touches. If achieved, this would make him the first running back to reach such a mark since DeMarco Murray accomplished it in 2014. Interestingly, Murray set this record during his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys, prior to his time with the Eagles, where he saw a decline in his performance, recording the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6. The cautionary tale of Murray’s stint with the Eagles highlights the potential risks of over-utilizing a star running back.
Managing the Workload
Mindful of this history, the Eagles’ management appears well aware of the need to monitor Barkley's workload to ensure his longevity throughout the season. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore emphasized the importance of this approach, noting, “Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it.”
Moore further elaborated on the team's strategy, asserting, “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.”
Saquon Barkley's Perspective
Despite the external concerns, Barkley remains unfazed. The Pro Bowler expressed confidence in his preparation and the team's ability to manage his load effectively. “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 stated.
Barkley also highlighted his rigorous offseason training regimen, underscoring his readiness for a demanding workload. “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 explained.
Reaffirming Barkley’s sentiments, Moore commented on Barkley's enthusiasm and performance, saying, “I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job.”
Historical Context
As Barkley continues to make waves early in the season, his trajectory is reminiscent of other high-touch running backs in recent NFL history. Le'Veon Bell, for example, had 406 touches in 2017 before holding out in 2018 for a lucrative contract extension. However, Bell's performance declined, with his yards-per-carry average dropping to 3.3 by 2019, one of the lowest among running backs with 250 or more carries.
The Eagles seem conscious of these historical examples as they balance between leveraging Barkley's talent and avoiding overuse. The potential for high usage has its benefits, but the organization's foresight may be crucial in preserving Barkley's peak performance over the years.
In summary, Barkley's first two games with the Eagles offer a tantalizing glimpse of what might be a record-setting season. Fans are already witnessing the impact of his prowess on the field. Yet, the story of Barkley's season will also be shaped by how well the Eagles manage his workload, a task they seem to approach with both caution and optimism. As of now, Barkley is focused, prepared, and ready to take on whatever comes his way, a stance that not only speaks to his commitment but also to the efficacy of the Eagles' support system in maintaining their star player's health and productivity.