Saquon Barkley breaks Eagles' rushing record - is he the best running back in the league?

In the NFL, specifically in Philadelphia, Saquon Barkley made headlines by breaking the Eagles franchise record for single-season rushing yards during a game against the Carolina Panthers. On December 1, 2024, Barkley rushed for 124 yards in the Eagles' 22-16 victory, surpassing LeSean McCoy's previous record of 1,607 yards set in 2013. This achievement marked a significant milestone in Barkley's career, demonstrating his prowess as a top running back in the league and solidifying his status as a key player for the Eagles. Barkley, now in his first season with the Eagles after transitioning from the New York Giants, has made an impressive impact on the team, becoming a fan favorite and a contender for the league’s MVP award. His performance this season has put him on pace to break the NFL's single-season rushing record set by Eric Dickerson of 2,105 yards in 1984. Currently, Barkley has accumulated 1,623 rushing yards with four games remaining in the regular season, needing to maintain an average of 120.8 yards per game to surpass Dickerson's long-standing record. Barkley's journey to this point has not been without challenges. After struggling with injuries in previous seasons with the Giants, where he only played a full 16 games twice, Barkley hit free agency. The Giants opted not to extend an offer or franchise tag him, allowing him to sign with the Eagles. This move has proven beneficial for both Barkley and his new team, as he has excelled in the Eagles' offensive scheme and has established himself as a workhorse running back with a high rushing average. While celebrating his record-setting performance, Barkley expressed humility and focus on the remaining season. He acknowledged the recognition, stating that while the records are great, there is still much more to achieve. Barkley’s commitment to his training and preparation reflects his desire to continuously improve and help his team win games. As the Eagles maintain a strong position in the NFC playoff picture, Barkley's contributions on the field will be pivotal as they move forward in the season.