In a strategic decision, Philadelphia Eagles coach Nick Sirianni has decided that running back Saquon Barkley will sit out the team’s final regular-season game, thereby ending Barkley’s chance to break Eric Dickerson’s long-standing NFL single-season rushing record.
Barkley’s absence from the game means he will conclude the season with 2,005 rushing yards, falling just short of Dickerson’s record of 2,105 yards set in 1984. The Eagles, having secured the NFC East title and the No. 2 seed in the conference, have little at stake in their upcoming match against the New York Giants.
Coach Sirianni noted that risking injury to Barkley, a pivotal player who ranks as the ninth running back in NFL history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season, was unnecessary. The Eagles are preparing for a wildcard playoff game, either facing Green Bay Packers or Washington Commanders, and maintaining player health is a priority.
Sirianni’s decision was formed through discussions with Barkley and other key figures within the organization, including players, coaches, and management. The team has successfully rebounded from an initial 2-2 start to achieve a 10-game winning streak, largely credited to Barkley’s efforts over the 345 carries he has managed this season.
Nick Sirianni expressed the tough nature of the decision but emphasized the extensive input from those involved as a guiding factor. Moreover, quarterback Jalen Hurts has not been cleared from the NFL’s concussion protocol and may also sit out to recover fully before the playoffs.
Barkley himself expressed understanding and agreement with the decision, highlighting his focus on team success over personal accolades. He recently achieved a single-season franchise record for scrimmage yards, surpassing LeSean McCoy’s previous record from 2013.
The rest period offers a strategic advantage as it mitigates the physical toll on players like Barkley, who remains a cornerstone of the team’s offensive strategy. With historical context, the decision also deflects debates on record-setting within a 17-game season, which wasn’t available to Dickerson in his era.
Ultimately, Barkley’s focus mirrors the team’s goal of pursuing a Super Bowl victory, aiming for collective success rather than individual records.
The Eagles’ decision to rest Saquon Barkley reflects a careful balance between potential individual achievements and overarching team goals. Looking ahead, both Barkley and the Eagles are aligned in their pursuit of greater accomplishments, with a hopeful eye towards success in the upcoming playoffs.
Source: News4jax
