Philly Leader

Saquon Barkley has made a significant impact in his initial games with the Philadelphia Eagles. His performance includes leading the NFL with 351 rushing yards and tying for the league lead with five touchdowns. Barkley has scored 34 points, which is the highest among positional players, and he averages 5.6 yards per carry, second only to J.K. Dobbins of the Chargers.

Barkley's contributions extend beyond rushing; he has added ten receptions for 53 yards, including a touchdown against Green Bay. Reflecting on his achievements, Barkley credits his teammates: "Everything I do is a credit to the players around me," he stated before a standout game against New Orleans where he recorded 147 yards and two touchdowns.

Barkley's start places him among some of the best opening performances by Eagles running backs. LeSean McCoy's notable seasons include 395 rushing yards in three games in 2013 and being inducted into the franchise's Hall of Fame this November. Wilbert Montgomery had impressive starts in both 1981 and during the Eagles' Super Bowl season in 1980.

Other remarkable starts include D'Andre Swift's performance in 2023, Brian Westbrook's consistent output in 2007 and 2006, Ricky Watters' contribution in 1996, Miles Sanders' beginning in 2022, and McCoy's additional strong start in 2010.

Throughout Eagles history, there have been twenty-one instances of players surpassing 1,000 rushing yards in a season. Notable records include McCoy's franchise record of 1,607 yards in 2013 and Montgomery's achievement of 1,512 yards in the 1979 season.

While it is still early in the season, Barkley's current trajectory suggests a promising continuation.