Saquon Barkley was the undisputed best running back in the NFL last season. He put up a historic stat line of 2,005 rushing yards, which led the league, and 13 touchdowns, cementing himself as the engine of the Philadelphia Eagles’ championship run.
This season, Barkley has been a shell of himself. Through eight games, he has 519 yards, which ranks 10th among running backs, to go along with four rushing touchdowns, tied for 12th. He’s also averaging 4.1 yards per rush — one of the lowest numbers in his eight-year career and almost two full yards below his 2024 average (5.8). Continuing at this pace would see him finish with 1,103 yards and nine TDs on the ground, which is a massive drop-off from last year.
Other players have performed worse than Philly's RB1, but his being one of the team's most important playmakers makes his slow start concerning. As the Eagles navigate their bye week, it's clear that the coaching staff must find a way to get Barkley back on track.
Saquon Barkley Is 1 of the Most Disappointing Eagles as Bye Week Continues
One possible reason for Barkley’s dip in production is that the Eagles' offensive line has not been healthy. Both starting left guard, Landon Dickerson, and starting center Cam Jurgens have missed time due to injuries. As a result, the Eagles' run blocking has not been as dominant as it was last season.
For the Eagles, the bye week could not have come at a better time. They have a 6-2 record, but it seems like we’ve yet to see the team’s full potential. With their next game not until Nov. 10, offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo has plenty of time to get his three-time Pro Bowl running back back to elite form for the stretch run.
It would be great if Patullo spent the coming days trying to get more creative with Barkley’s touches. Perhaps more screens, swing passes, and outside zone concepts that can get him into space will help, as that is something that made him so dangerous last season.
If Barkley returns to form, the Eagles’ offense could be downright unstoppable. With Hurts healthy, A.J. Brown dominating on the perimeter, and Dallas Goedert heating up, a rejuvenated Barkley would give Philadelphia the balance it needs to run through the NFC, elevating the odds of a second consecutive Super Bowl title.
Don’t worry, Eagles fans. Your team is once again one of the best teams in the NFL and has a legitimate chance to repeat as Super Bowl champions. The good news? The pieces are in place for a turnaround.
The offensive line should be healthier coming out of the bye, and Barkley’s track record suggests he finds another gear late in the year. If he does, the Eagles’ offense could rediscover its 2024 rhythm — and Philly’s title hopes will soar right along with him.