Saquon Barkley Overrated or Underrated
Huge expectations stood in front of Saquon Barkley ahead of the 2019-20 season. The NFL Rookie of the year had an unbelievable rookie season, breaking records, showing why the New York Giants drafted him instead of a much-needed quarterback. Playing along-side newly drafted quarterback Daniel Jones, this season, Barkley was set for success until an unfortunate week 3 knee injury put him out for weeks. Only playing in 13 games for the year, Barkley surpassed 1400 all-purpose yards, with 438 receiving and 1003 on the ground, significantly less than his 2028 all-purpose yards a season prior. But a disappointing statistical season cannot be entirely blamed on Barkley, and some would argue playing with a bad play-calling coach as well as a shaky offensive line also affected his year. Achieving over 1000 rushing yards is a feat for a running back, but Barkley came short of the expectations from fans and analysts. So, does falling short of these expectations make Barkley overrated or underrated.
Being drafted with the second pick, the New York Giants needed a saviour and Barkley played into the role perfectly. Breaking multiple records and leading the NFL in all-purpose yards Barkley was named as Rookie of the Year in the 2018-2019 season. Barkley has seen himself being compared to some of the best, and Multiple Hall of Fame players have spoken about Barkley. Barry Sanders has said he believes Barkley will be enshrined in the Hall of Fame one day which is big praise coming from one of the best at his position. Barkley has stepped up as a leader and shown his ability to play. His incredible rookie season was one for the ages, as he led the NFL with 2028 yards and was 3rd in total touchdowns with 15. (tied with Antonio Brown). Barkley broke every record he could’ve as he shattered a new record each week, surpassing Odell Beckham Jr. as the greatest Giants rookie ever.
Being named the best running-back in the NFL may have been a bit premature after Barkley had played just one season, but is it still too early? Barkley is as skilled as any other running back playing now, but the main knock on his success is his inconsistency. This was highlighted in week 10 vs week 16, after rushing for just 1 yard in 13 attempts against the Jets in week 10, he exploded in week 16, rushing for 189 yards and racking up 90 receiving yards against Washington. Christian McCaffery and Ezekiel Elliott simply out played Barkley this season but does this make them better players. Being a better player does not just account for stats and Barkley surely passes the eye test as he rushed for big yardage multiple times. But his inconsistent runs slowed down his total yardage in week 9 against the Dallas Cowboys. In that contest, Barkley had a total of 95 yards from scrimmage, struggling to make plays until having a huge reception for 60 yards. So, although he can make huge plays, what limits him is the ability to get consistent gains.
The last season for Saquon Barkley should be taken with a grain of salt. Surpassing 1000 rushing yards while dealing with injuries, bad coaches and a not so great o-line is incredible, and the skill that is necessary to carry that out should prove just how great Saquon Barkley is. Next season will be all Barkley’s and a case for offensive player of the year will be made. Drafting Andrew Thomas was a move made specifically for Barkley to give him consistent room to run. A completely dominate rookie season to an adequate season is why Barkley has been doubted so much, and maybe the rookie year was a just a fluke? But with new head coach Joe Judge and new offensive coordinator Jason Garrett, Saquon Barkley is ready to produce. Jason Garrett is a coach famous for making his stars record substantial numbers as Ezekiel Elliott and Dak Prescott had unreal statistical seasons last year. A new brand of New York Giants offense is coming, and Barkley is ready to rack up yards.
After having an overall spectacular first two seasons there is no consensus where Barkley ranks among the top running backs some have him at number one others have him outside the top 8. This season will define who Saquon Barkley is as a player. With some key refinements by the Giants, including the addition of a new offensive lineman, a new coach and a very skilled offensive coordinator, Barkley will be positioned to excel. Everything is lined up for Barkley to explode back into his rookie form and no one will hold him back this season. Then we can decide where he ranks among the best of the best.
This article is original content published by sports writer Matthew White. Please feel free to link to and discuss this article but do not copy content.
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