Saquon Barkley’s Struggles: Eagles’ Running Game Needs a Shakeup

It’s time to talk about Saquon Barkley. No, this isn’t about calling him washed up. Far from it, but going from leading the league in rushing to nearly being an afterthought raises questions about the Eagles running game. Some of it falls on defensive schemes, some on unimaginative offensive play calling but Barkley isn’t entirely off the hook.

The good news for the Philadelphia Eagles is that Barkley isn’t sulking. He’s taking responsibility for a rough start to 2025.

“I wouldn’t say frustrated. More disappointed with myself, not frustrated with anybody else. I’m a big believer the run game starts with me and ends with me. I’m in a little funk right now. I’ve had funks like this before, just got to break it,” Barkley said.

He insists he’s healthy and maybe he’s blaming himself a bit too much.

“I’m not getting the run game going. I’m not getting yards. I’m tired of the excuse of people trying to stop the run game. I don’t really subscribe to that. Just got to be better, got to make plays.”

Still, the lack of production—whether due to scheme, offensive line play, or the heavy 2024 workload—is concerning. The Eagles’ coaching staff may need to adjust the backfield to ease Barkley’s load.

One potential solution: a three-headed backfield featuring Barkley, Tank Bigsby, and Will Shipley. Sharing carries could help Barkley regain explosiveness while keeping defenses honest. It’s a strategy that could rejuvenate not just Barkley, but the Eagles’ rushing attack as a whole, giving the team a better chance to control the clock and finish strong.

The bottom line: Barkley’s funk isn’t permanent but adjustments are necessary. With a revamped backfield strategy and Barkley’s accountability, the Eagles have the pieces to turn around the 2025 running game and make a late-season push for the number one seed in the playoffs.