The Philadelphia Eagles have endured a frustrating and injury-plagued start to the 2026 NFL season. After starting the year 2-0, the Eagles have lost four straight games while also losing quarterback Jalen Hurts for the remainder of the season due to blood clots.
Philadelphia has been unable to get its offense on track over this four-game stretch, averaging just 14.5 points per game during the losing streak. One of the biggest issues has been the running game. Philadelphia has struggled to generate consistent production on the ground, and those problems have only been magnified by Saquon Barkley’s absence with a hamstring injury.
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Barkley has missed the last two games after he suffered a right hamstring strain against the Rams in Week 4, which ended his day in the first quarter.
Before going down, Barkley remained one of Philly’s most efficient offensive weapons. While his overall usage was down, Barkley was averaging 5.1 yards per carry, which would be the second-highest mark of his career. Through the first three games of the season, Barkley recorded 174 yards on 34 carries, although he has yet to find the end zone this season.
With the Eagles hoping Barkley is nearing a return, the team made several changes to its running back room this week, including signing veteran Elijah Mitchell to the practice squad. The Eagles also released Ian Wheeler from the practice squad. The team also waived Jaydon Blue and Carson Steele.
The Eagles continue to wait for clarity regarding Barkley’s return, but he was never placed on injured reserve, so a quick return is possible. While his return is yet to be announced, these roster moves suggest the team may be expecting Barkley back this week against the Dallas Cowboys.
If Barkley is able to suit up against Dallas, Philadelphia would be getting back one of its most important offensive players with a chance to turn its ground game around.
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