Philadelphia Eagles fans are buzzing with excitement this season thanks to the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley. Through just two games, Barkley has already proven his worth, recording an impressive 52 touches. The breakdown is remarkably consistent, with 26 touches in each game.
In his debut with the Eagles, Barkley showcased his versatility, averaging 4.5 yards per carry with 24 carries. He maintained a strong performance in Week 2, averaging 4.3 yards per carry on 22 carries. With an overall average of 4.8 yards per touch this season, Barkley is performing at his highest efficiency since 2019, making a significant impact early in his Philadelphia tenure.
As the season progresses, the Eagles' management team is acutely aware of the demands placed on their new star. Kellen Moore, speaking on the matter, remarked, "Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it." This sentiment was echoed in his further comments, "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."
Managing the Workload
Barkley's current pace suggests he could finish the season with 442 touches, a feat last achieved by DeMarco Murray in 2014. Murray hit that mark while playing for the Dallas Cowboys, but his subsequent stint with the Eagles saw a downturn, recording the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6. The Eagles' history with managing high-touch running backs underscores the importance of balancing Barkley's workload to maintain both his performance and health.
Drawing comparisons, Le'Veon Bell's 406 touches in 2017 are another cautionary tale. Bell's high usage led to a contract dispute and a significant holdout in 2018. By 2019, his efficiency had dropped, with a yards-per-carry average of just 3.3 among running backs with 250 or more carries. This historical context highlights the delicate balance teams must strike to optimize their star players' contributions while safeguarding their career longevity.
Barkley himself is confident in his ability to handle the 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 stated, demonstrating his readiness and dedication. He continues to rely on the Eagles' meticulous approach to player health, "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."
The Road Ahead
The Eagles' coaching staff appears mindful of Barkley's robust start and the potential need for strategic adjustments. "I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job," Moore noted, acknowledging both Barkley's desire and significant contributions on the field.
While Philadelphia's fans are rightfully enthusiastic about Barkley's early successes, the seasoned veterans in management know the importance of long-term resilience. The goal will be to ensure Barkley remains a vital asset without compromising his efficiency and longevity. Given Barkley's history of offseason preparation and in-season conditioning, there's optimism that he can continue his stellar performance throughout the year.