Saquon Barkley helped propel the Giants to a comeback win over the Cardinals Sunday, scoring twice and gaining a late first down to set up the go-ahead field goal. But the star running back did not finish the game, suffering an ankle injury after an awkward landing on a fourth-quarter tackle, then requiring assistance to limp off the field.
The Pro Bowl back led the Giants with 23 offensive touches at the time of his injury, which prompted Barkley to remain on the ground after initial attempts to walk on his own. He then slammed his helmet to the ground in frustration after taking a seat on the bench. Trainers could be seen taping his ankle after he left the field, and he walked gingerly while on the sidelines.
According to multiple reports, Barkley suffered a sprained ankle and will undergo further testing on Monday. The initial fear is that it’s not a high ankle sprain.
While he only averaged 3.7 yards per carry against Arizona, Barkley was instrumental to the Giants erasing a 20-point halftime deficit, leading the team with six catches out of the backfield.
The sixth-year veteran signed a one-year contract worth up to $11 million to return to New York this offseason, fresh off a career year under coach Brian Daboll. Injuries, however, have plagued him throughout his career, most notably during a 2019-2021 stretch in which the Penn State product missed 20 combined games due to different ankle and knee ailments.
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It’s possible, regardless of his condition, that Barkley could miss the Giants’ next game, a Week 3 matchup with the 49ers that falls on Thursday, giving New York just three days of rest in between. Matt Breida and Gary Brightwell are the team’s top backup RBs.
Barkley had an X-ray following the game, but didn’t speak to reporters after the game, so results are not yet known.
