Saquon Barkley Injury
Saquon Barkley fantasy managers had a tense Sunday. The Philadelphia Eagles running back suffered a stinger on the team’s first offensive play in Week 2 against the Tennessee Titans. He missed the rest of the first half and returned on the opening possession of the third quarter.
Barkley finished with four carries for 9 yards and one catch for 11 yards. That is 20 scrimmage yards on five touches. He played 12 offensive snaps and wore extra protection around his neck and shoulder when he came back.
Saquon Barkley’s Injury Status
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Barkley will undergo an MRI. Rapoport described the decision as “more cautious than anything else.” The hope inside the Eagles’ building is that the injury is minor. Barkley told reporters after the game that he felt fine and would know more later in the week.
A stinger happens when a nerve gets pinched. It is uncomfortable, but it rarely costs a player extended time. Barkley’s return is a good sign. There is one caution. NBC Sports noted the injury could be diagnosed as a neck issue, which teams handle carefully. The MRI results were not available as of Monday. The Eagles’ first injury report of the week should add clarity.
Eagles Backfield Without Barkley
Tank Bigsby and Will Shipley took over while Barkley was out. Bigsby carried 13 times for 33 yards and a touchdown. Shipley had seven carries for 24 yards. As a group, the Eagles ran for 89 yards at 2.8 yards per carry.
The run game has been a concern for two weeks. Barkley gained 83 yards on 15 carries in Week 1, but 78 of those yards came after contact. Guard Landon Dickerson then landed on injured reserve, and Drew Kendall filled in, but the offensive line isn’t as elite as many people say. This is an ongoing issue.
Tight end Dallas Goedert also left Week 2 with a knee injury and did not return. Bigsby is the clear next man up if Barkley misses time. Shipley would still have a role.
Barkley Fantasy Outlook for Week 3
Philadelphia plays at the Chicago Bears on Monday, September 28, at 8:15 p.m. ET. The extra days help. If the MRI shows no structural damage
Managers should not act on the MRI news alone. Check Wednesday’s practice report before setting a lineup. Bigsby is worth a waiver claim as insurance if he is available in your league. He carries real value if Barkley is limited or out.
