Saquon Barkley is an All-Pro performer and Philadelphia’s primary running back, but the Eagles have enough depth to manage his workload in 2026, allowing the 2025 Offensive Player of the Year to be healthy entering the stretch run and playoffs.
Barkley should receive approximately 65% to 70% of the offensive touches, as he remains the offense’s best runner, most dangerous receiver out of the backfield, and a trusted pass protector. Tank Bigsby is the logical replacement to give Barkley a breather on early downs. His physical running style gives Philadelphia another option between the tackles and could allow Barkley to rest without forcing Sean Mannion to change the offensive philosophy.
Will Shipley should receive more work on third downs and
in hurry-up situations. He can catch the football, run versatile routes, and contribute on special teams. Bigsby could receive eight to 10 carries when Philadelphia controls the game, while Shipley may see more snaps when the Eagles need additional pass-catching options.
Keeping Barkley fresh for December and January matters more than maximizing his September statistics. Bigsby and Shipley give the Eagles enough complementary parts for Mannion to pursue that balance.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: How the Eagles could divide carries behind RB Saquon Barkley
