Philadelphia Eagles fans have every reason to be buzzing with excitement this season, and much of that optimism is centered around the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley. After a blockbuster move that saw Barkley donning the Eagles jersey, the dynamic playmaker has quickly validated the hype with a scintillating start to the season.
Barkley has seen substantial utilization through just two games, with 52 touches to his name. This workload has been evenly distributed, with the running back clocking exactly 26 touches in each game. His performance on the field suggests a potent blend of stamina and skill, essential qualities as the season progresses.
Impressive Consistency and Efficiency
In Week 1, Barkley carried the ball 24 times, averaging an impressive 4.5 yards per carry. The following week, he maintained his efficiency, carrying the ball 22 times and averaging 4.3 yards per carry. This consistency has translated into an overall average of 4.8 yards per touch this season, the highest for Barkley since his stellar 2019 campaign.
There's growing speculation that Barkley could end his first season in Philadelphia with a remarkable 442 touches. Should this prediction hold true, he would be the first running back to reach such a mark since DeMarco Murray in 2014. Murray set this touch record during his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys, before joining the Eagles. However, it's worth noting that Murray's time in Philadelphia saw the lowest yards-per-carry average of his career at 3.6.
Lessons from History
The Eagles are evidently aware of the lessons from the past. Le'Veon Bell, for instance, had 406 touches in 2017 but experienced a significant dip in efficiency by 2019, recording one of the lowest yards-per-carry averages at 3.3 among running backs with 250 or more carries. Given this historical context, it’s clear that careful management of Barkley's workload will be crucial.
Monitoring the Workload
Kellen Moore, one of the team’s key coaching figures, asserted, "Obviously from a longevity standpoint as the season progresses, we've got to be aware of it." Moore recognizes the fine balance required, adding, "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 appears unfazed by the heavy workload. He projects confidence, saying, "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." His optimism is backed by the support system in place. "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 added.
Moore echoed this sentiment, praising Barkley's exceptional work ethic and readiness. "I think that's definitely fair. I think Saquon -- he wants the rock. He's done a phenomenal job."
A Promising Season Ahead
As the Eagles ride the early season wave of Barkley's performances, the broader focus remains on sustainable success. The impressive start is just one piece of the puzzle; ensuring Barkley's health and effectiveness over a grueling season will be the true test. The management’s awareness of potential pitfalls and their proactive approach toward monitoring workloads could prove crucial.
If Barkley continues to deliver on his early-season promise, Philadelphia Eagles fans could be in for a season to remember. Balancing ambition with caution, the Eagles seem poised to navigate the challenges ahead with a seasoned playmaker leading their charge.