Adam Wells
November 25, 2023
Michael Owens/Getty Images
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley is still recovering from the sprained ankle he suffered earlier this season.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Barkley has been managing his pain with additional physical therapy to address “lingering effects” from the injury he suffered in Week 2.
The injury occurred late in the 4th quarter of New York’s 31-28 win over the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2. Barkley was diagnosed with a high ankle sprain and missed the next three games.
Based on his recent production, it seems Barkley is beginning to return to his old self. He ran for 298 yards in his first three games after returning, but only averaged 3.7 yards per carry during that span.
Since Week 9, Barkley has gained 239 rushing yards on 43 carries. He has averaged more than 5.0 yards per carry in each of the last three games and had a season-high 57 receiving yards in a 31-19 victory over the Washington Commanders.
Given all the challenges the Giants have faced this season, no one would have faulted Barkley if he wanted to play it safe after suffering a significant injury. He’s playing for a long-term contract after failing to secure one from New York last offseason.
Instead, Barkley is on his way to another season with 1,000 rushing yards. He ranks 4th in the NFL with 81.4 yards per game on the ground, despite playing behind one of the worst run-blocking offensive lines in the league.
Barkley will get a break in Week 13 when the Giants have a bye. Before that, though, he will try to lead the team to a second consecutive win when New York hosts the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
