The anticipation among Philadelphia Eagles fans this season has reached a fever pitch, largely due to the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley. In just two games, Barkley has become a focal point of the Eagles' offensive strategy, boasting an impressive 52 touches so far.
Early Performances and Consistency
Breaking down his early-season performance, Barkley has managed exactly 26 touches in each game, showcasing a remarkable level of consistency. In Week 1, he averaged 4.5 yards per carry on 24 carries, a debut that quickly silenced any lingering skepticism about his transition to the Philadelphia system. The following week, his efficiency continued with 4.3 yards per carry on 22 carries. This gives Barkley an impressive overall average of 4.8 yards per touch, marking his highest since 2019.
Workload Management Amid Historical Comparisons
The question of workload management looms large. If Barkley continues at his current pace, he could end the season with a staggering 442 touches. This extraordinary number draws comparisons to DeMarco Murray, who was the last running back to reach that figure in 2014. Murray managed this feat during his time with the Dallas Cowboys before joining the Eagles, where his carry average dropped to a career-low of 3.6 yards per carry.
Kellen Moore, the Eagles' offensive coordinator, has already voiced his awareness regarding the need to monitor Barkley's workload. "Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it," Moore states. "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."
Another cautionary tale lies in the career trajectory of Le'Veon Bell. Bell recorded 406 touches in the 2017 season, only to hold out in 2018 for a lucrative contract extension. By 2019, his efficiency had plummeted, posting one of the lowest yards-per-carry averages at 3.3 among running backs with 250 or more carries. This serves as a potent reminder of the dangers of an overburdened workload.
Barkley’s Confidence and Team Support
Despite the cautionary tales, Barkley himself appears unconcerned. Confident in his training regime and the support staff around him, he remarks, "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." This level of self-assurance extends into his dedication during the offseason. "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 adds.
Moore also echoes this sentiment, acknowledging Barkley's desire for the football. "I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job," Moore says, outlining the balance between utilizing a star player's talents and ensuring their longevity.
Looking Forward
As the season develops, the Eagles face the challenge of leveraging Barkley's extraordinary abilities while being mindful of his physical limits. The organization’s approach, balancing immediate performance with long-term health, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in determining how far they can go this season.
With Barkley’s current form and the team's cautious optimism, the excitement among Eagles fans is well justified. If the first two games are any indication, Saquon Barkley’s tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles might just redefine expectations for what a running back can achieve.