Saquon Barkley Expected to Play in Week 8
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley is expected to play in Sunday night's NFC East matchup against the Washington Commanders, according to multiple reports. The Eagles removed Barkley from their final injury report on Friday, clearing him for action after he missed two days of practice with hamstring and back injuries.
Barkley returned to practice in a limited capacity on Friday, an encouraging sign after he dealt with both issues during last week's loss to the Dallas Cowboys. The 29-year-old running back said after Friday's session that he felt good enough to return, while stressing the importance of listening to the medical staff and being smart with his recovery.
"One day I'm not gonna be playing football," Barkley said at his locker on Friday. "Whenever that is, I don't want to look back and be like, 'I could have gave it a chance, and I didn't.'"
Injury History Raises Concerns
Barkley originally suffered the hamstring injury early in the Oct. 4 loss to the Los Angeles Rams and missed the next two games. He returned Monday night against the Cowboys but was limited to just 10 snaps, though he still managed 71 scrimmage yards and a touchdown. He said he tweaked the hamstring on his first carry against Dallas, a 29-yard run, and later dealt with back tightness while trying to compensate.
"Definitely dealing with some stuff, but just working through it," Barkley said. He described the recovery as non-linear and said he has stayed focused by "attacking the day, every single day" and remaining "obsessed with my process and my rehab."
Stakes High for Struggling Eagles
The Eagles sit at 2-5 and cannot afford many more setbacks as they try to turn their season around. The team has also dealt with injuries to quarterback Jalen Hurts and several other key players, contributing to their disappointing start. Despite the struggles, Barkley remains a central figure in Philadelphia's offense and is needed more than ever with the running back room banged up.
Barkley's availability is particularly important given the team's current state. He has two years and just over $35 million remaining on his contract, and despite speculation that the Eagles might consider trading him before the deadline, sources told NFL Network that Barkley will not be moved. General manager Howie Roseman has had trade talks involving some players as he surveys the market, but Barkley is not among those expected to be dealt.
Fantasy Football Implications
Fantasy managers can consider starting Barkley against Washington, but they should be cautious about expecting his usual workload. His availability is encouraging, but last week's performance showed how much his injuries can affect his playing time. His touchdown helped rescue his fantasy performance last week, but relying on another score would be risky. Managers with reliable alternatives at running back should weigh those options before locking Barkley into their lineups. The verdict: start Barkley if you do not have a stronger option, but his health and potential workload make him a less dependable fantasy option this week.
Broader Implications for Eagles' Season
Barkley's decision to play through injuries reflects his competitive nature and commitment to his team, but it also raises questions about how much he can realistically contribute. The Eagles are expected to manage his workload carefully, potentially using him on a pitch count against Washington. In Landover, Barkley expects to manage the injuries during the game by following the coaches' plan and keeping his body activated.
"When I was out there, I felt like I was able to provide a spark and make some plays," Barkley said. The Eagles will need that spark as they try to climb back into playoff contention. With the trade deadline approaching and the team trending toward being out of contention, every game becomes critical. Barkley's presence on the field, even in a limited role, gives Philadelphia a better chance to compete. For a team that has struggled with injuries and inconsistency, his return is a positive development, but it may not be enough to solve all of the Eagles' problems.
As Barkley put it, "I like playing football. So if I have the opportunity to play, I'll try my best to play." That attitude will be tested as he navigates his injuries and tries to help the Eagles turn their season around. For now, all eyes will be on Sunday night to see how much Barkley can deliver.
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