Barkley urges Eagles to keep competing amid five-game losing streak
With Jalen Hurts out for the season, the running back says he and other veterans must take on more vocal leadership.
Saquon Barkley said he spoke to his Eagles teammates after their loss to the Cowboys, urging them to remain committed despite five consecutive defeats and a 2-5 record. The running back said the team could still reverse its fortunes.
Barkley also rejected the idea of stopping play to protect his health. He entered the game with an injured hamstring, worsened it on his opening carry and then injured his back while compensating for the hamstring’s restricted movement. He said his love of football drove him to push himself physically when able to play.
The Eagles are without quarterback Jalen Hurts for the remainder of the season because of blood clots. Barkley described Hurts as the usual vocal leader and said he and other veterans needed to assume that responsibility in his absence.
Barkley said he generally preferred setting an example through his actions but felt the circumstances called for him to speak. He credited his teammates’ effort and leadership despite the results, saying the responsibility for improving their situation belonged to the entire team.
