Eagles' Saquon Barkley to Miss Out on Rushing Record, Will Be Rested For Week 18

The Philadelphia Eagles have announced that running back Saquon Barkley and the rest of the starters will now play in the final game of the regular season. This will effectively remove Barkley's chance at breaking the rushing yards record that is still held by Eric Dickerson.

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The record is currently at 2,105 yards, which has been held by Dickerson since 1984. Barkley is only 101 yards away from breaking that record. Though fans wanted the Eagles running back to secure the record, that will not be the case.

TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 29: Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles walks off the field prior to an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on September 29, 2024... Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Barkley recently told reporters that he has no interest in breaking the record, and would rather do what is necessary to allow the Eagles to win. That is going to be the case, as head coach Nick Sirianni sees more value in resting his starters to prepare for the playoffs.

This is a smart move from Sirianni, as the Eagles can now allow their top players to get a week of rest before they head to the playoffs to take on the very talented NFC teams waiting. The Eagles will presumably need to get through the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and more.

The entire NFC North and NFC are loaded with formidable opponents, so expect to see more starters rested to prepare for deep playoff runs. Fans might be a bit upset that Barkley was not given the chance to break the rushing yards record, but Sirianni is thinking ahead in terms of the smartest thing to do for his team.

Barkley has been on a tear this season, securing 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns on the ground. His spectacular performance has led to the Eagles showcasing a completely revamped offensive attack.

Barkley may not get the record for rushing yards, but he is being labeled as a front-runner for the 2024 MVP. He might also win Offensive Player of the Year. Either way, the Eagles running back has showcased why he is the most elite back in the entire NFL.

Barkley's emergence with the Eagles is just another nail in the proverbial coffin of New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen. The Giants were showcased on "Hard Knocks" and the surprising choice to let Barkley walk in free agency was shown in great detail.

Schoen might be let go following the 2024 season simply due to this huge misstep of letting Barkley sign with another team. For now, the Eagles will look to having a rested back for their hopeful Super Bowl appearance.

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