New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley has some frustration to let loose as he nears his return to the game field.
An NFL running back always seems to have that extra chip on their shoulder, and why shouldn’t they? It’s an aggressive position that deals with a lot more physical contact than others.
In fact, on average, running backs have the shortest career span. According to Statista, that position lasts an average of 2.57 years in this league.
Therefore, that extra chip may come with frustration at times. That’s exactly what New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley is dealing with. The 2018 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, who will most definitely play longer than that average, has missed the last three games.
It’s the first few missed matchups of his career. Barkley is currently nursing a high ankle sprain and is frustrated that he hasn’t been out on the field, to the point where teammates have taken notice.
“He’s been special since day No. 1, coming back from this he’s champing at the bit a little bit,” tight end Evan Engram said, per Paul Schwartz of the New York Post. “When you miss time you just miss it so much when you come back it just adds that extra juice. I know he’s going to be the guy he is and be better and he’s gonna have a little edge to him just coming back out there.”
Barkley has shown that “little edge” in practice, according to Engram.
“We’ve gotten into some arguments about some things before, some debates, I’ve seen him get worked up,” the third-year pro said.
Will Barkley return this coming Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals? The team has yet to make a decision. If not, Elijhaa Penny and Javorius “Buck” Allen will have to man the running game. Wayne Gallman could still be sidelined as well with a concussion.
