Barkley returns to Eagles lineup with 62 yards despite back trouble

Saquon Barkley returned to the Philadelphia Eagles lineup on Monday night and finished with 62 rushing yards and a touchdown in a 38-21 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Barkley touched the ball on all nine offensive snaps he played, a statistical first for a starter in the last two decades. Despite the short playing time, the running back said his hamstring felt strong and he does not expect his back issue to sideline him again.

The Eagles listed Barkley as questionable for the matchup because a hamstring injury kept him out for the previous two weeks. The coaching staff attempted to limit his workload, but his playing time dropped further when his back locked up during the contest. He managed a total of nine snaps, combining seven carries for 62 yards with two receptions for nine yards.

Barkley first tweaked his back on a 29-yard run in the first quarter. He stated that the problem worsened as the game went on. His final snap of the evening came in the third quarter. After scoring on an eight-yard run during the first offensive possession, he immediately moved to an exercise bike on the sideline to manage the discomfort.

Head coach Nick Sirianni noted that the staff prioritized player health before clearing Barkley for action. Sirianni described the running back as tough and eager to help his teammates. The coach said he likely had to slow Barkley down because the player wanted to be on the field for every play.

Barkley spent time in the medical tent and stretched with trainers on the bench throughout the game. He deferred to the training staff regarding his status moving forward. He expressed frustration that his body was not responding to his efforts. He said he loves the game and believes in pushing physical limits when possible.

The Eagles have suffered multiple injuries at the running back position. Will Shipley, Tank Bigsby, and Carson Steele are currently on injured reserve. Dameon Pierce left the game in the fourth quarter with an undisclosed injury. Elijah Mitchell, who was elevated from the practice squad, handled the remaining running duties for Philadelphia.

The Eagles will look to shake off the loss as they prepare for their next matchup. Barkley's return provides depth for a backfield that has been depleted by various injuries over the last month.