Saquon Barkley is one of the top running backs in the NFL, but needs to see his workload decreased. Two years ago, he was the top weapon in the league, totaling over 2,000 scrimmage yards and carrying the team to a Super Bowl win. 2025 was a different story. Barkley saw his total production drop by 61%, but even with a down season, he can bounce back if backup running back Tank Bigsby is incorporated into the offense and there is a change to the offensive scheme.
Who Can Help Saquon Barkley?
The Philadelphia Eagles hired a new offensive coordinator, Sean Mannion, and he has many weapons at his disposal. He’ll be installing more plays that will be run from under center, which helps Barkley. Over the past two seasons, the Eagles mainly ran out of shotgun formation, and that makes it easier to stop the running game. Now defenses will have to scout them differently because they will not be as predictable. Using stretch runs, tosses, misdirections, and inside zones gives the Eagles multiple ways to attack a defense in the run game.
When Barkley had his career season, it was due to an overpowering offensive line that could maul their opponents. It seemed like the majority of the time it was a varsity football team beating down middle schoolers. It was to the point that offensive tackle Jordan Mailata would be laughing while blocking his defender.
Last season, the offensive line was dealing with injuries that held back their ability to open the same holes as they did prior. Inconsistent play up front led to less production from Barkley. New offensive line coach Chris Kuper uses a blocking style that’s less physically demanding on his players. Less wear and tear on their bodies will go a long way to keeping them healthy.
During the 2025 season, the Eagles traded for Bigsby, and he showed glimpses of being a capable running back. In Week 8 vs the New York Giants, he rushed for 104 yards, but in total he only had 344 yards on 61 touches. He had a career high in touches of 175 in 2024, but once the Jaguars hired Liam Cohen, Bigsby didn’t fit the scheme.
Now in Philly, Bigsby has the opportunity to display his quick-cut ability and the speed to hit the open hole. He is in a contract year and would welcome the chance to show his skills with an increased workload. With Barkley having notable injuries in his career, it would be wise to have Bigsby take some of the carries.
Jalen Hurts has been the main subject of conversation regarding the Eagles and their offense. In the past, he could beat you with his arm in big-time games, but he has also shown the ability to run. Last year was the lowest rushing total of his career, besides his rookie season. When Hurts runs for more than 600 yards, the Eagles find another avenue of success. If he can replicate those numbers, it will lessen the emphasis put on Barkley in the backfield. It will be added pressure on Hurts, but he’s handled that pressure before and to the highest standard.
Saquon Barkley Will Be A Top Running Back In 2026
There is a new offensive era in Philadelphia, but they still want to run the football. When everything is clicking, Barkley will be at the height of his superpowers. The Eagles need to monitor his touches to have him ready to roll once the postseason arrives. With a new scheme in place and adding Bigsby to the rotation, this team could find similar success in the run game as they have done in the past.
