theathleticuk
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley will suit up for Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears, he confirmed Friday, after a stinger injury limited him to just five touches in the team's Week 1 victory over the Tennessee Titans.
Barkley described the injury as a common nerve issue, noting that severity varies. "Everyone knows what it is – a stinger – some are worse than others, and just keeping the nerves calmed down around it," he said. He added that the Monday night schedule provides extra recovery time: "Beautiful thing is it's a Monday night game, so I have a little more time. But right now, the mindset is I'm good to go."
He also mentioned a possible precaution: "Might have to put on a little cowboy collar for a little bit, but I'd rather that than something with my ankles and my feet and my legs."
The injury occurred on the game's opening play when Barkley took a hit from Titans defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons. He sat out the rest of the first half but returned in the second half. Since joining the Eagles in 2024, Barkley has not missed a game due to injury.
As the centerpiece of Philadelphia's offense, Barkley ran for 83 yards on 15 carries in the season opener. He was a full participant in Friday's practice and underwent an MRI to rule out a more serious condition.
Barkley expressed confidence that the injury won't hinder him Monday. "I don't think so. No, that's why I'm rehabbing my ass off to get as strong as it needs to be," he said. "I feel like I'm in a really good spot. I know that they wouldn't let me go out there if I wasn't able to do it. I'm gonna go out there and play fearless. Don't worry about it. Don't worry about, like, I've dealt with a lot of injuries in my career, the mental side of it a little bit, so I'm excited. Feel good. Feel like I'm having great practice. Feel like we put a great week of work in as a whole, and we got a great opportunity."
Key Analysis
Barkley's availability is crucial for an Eagles offense that relies heavily on his production. His ability to play through the stinger without missing time underscores his durability and importance to the team's success. With the Bears up next, Philadelphia will look to maintain momentum with their star running back leading the charge.
Originally reported by theathleticuk.