Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley is on the verge of making history, sitting just 101 yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson’s 1984 single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards. However, with the Eagles locked into the No. 2 seed in the NFC and nothing riding on Sunday’s regular-season finale against the New York Giants, head coach Nick Sirianni has indicated that Barkley and other starters are unlikely to play.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from fans, some of whom are upset that Barkley may not get the chance to etch his name in the record books. However, Super Bowl-winning coach Tony Dungy is firmly backing Sirianni, urging fans to view the situation through a broader lens.
Dungy’s Perspective
Dungy, who led the Indianapolis Colts to a Super Bowl victory in 2006, took to social media to share his thoughts, likening the Week 18 game to a preseason matchup.
“For all the fans who are upset at Coach Sirianni for not playing Saquon in this game and letting him go after the rushing record: Please understand this game means as much to the Eagles as the final preseason game,” Dungy wrote on X.
Dungy emphasized the potential risk of injury in a game that holds no significance for the Eagles’ postseason aspirations.
“Who is upset when the starters don’t play in that preseason game? Who would be upset if Barkley got injured on his 20th carry in the last preseason game and missed the opener? Who would be upset if ANY key starter got a season-ending injury in the LAST PRESEASON GAME?” Dungy added.
The former coach acknowledged that it’s a tough call, especially with the weight of potential history hanging in the balance. However, he believes it’s the right decision for the team’s long-term goals.
“It’s not an easy call when a player has a chance to do something significant,” Dungy concluded. “But it’s an obvious call given what’s on the line.”
RELATED: Eric Dickerson Shares His Perspective on Saquon Barkley’s Quest to Break Rushing Record
Barkley Understands the Team-First Approach
For his part, Barkley has been understanding of the situation. Speaking with reporters this week, the Pro Bowl running back said he supports whatever decision Sirianni makes, reiterating his commitment to the team’s success over individual accolades.
“Obviously, I’d love to go out there and have the chance to break the record, but the team comes first,” Barkley said. “We’re trying to win a championship, and that’s the bigger picture.”
Barkley has been a key component of the Eagles’ success this season, and keeping him healthy for the playoffs is a priority. Given the workload he would likely need to surpass Dickerson’s record — over 100 yards in a single game — the risks outweigh the rewards for a game with no playoff implications.
Dickerson’s Comments Add Fuel to the Fire
Dickerson himself has not been shy about his thoughts on the record and Barkley’s pursuit, which has only fueled fans’ desire to see Barkley break it. However, the Eagles’ focus remains on their Super Bowl aspirations, and Sirianni’s decision reflects that commitment.
A Tough Call, But the Right One
If Barkley needed just a few yards to surpass Dickerson, the decision might be different. But with over 100 yards to go, a full workload would likely be required, significantly increasing the risk of injury. For a team with championship ambitions, resting starters, including Barkley, is the prudent choice.
The Eagles will face the Giants on Sunday with their sights set on the playoffs.
Barkley, meanwhile, will likely watch from the sidelines, knowing that while individual records are tempting, the ultimate goal remains a Lombardi Trophy.
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