Barkley runs 62 yards in nine snaps

Saquon Barkley rushed for 62 yards and a touchdown on just nine offensive snaps during the Philadelphia Eagles' 38-21 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Monday night.

Barkley missed the previous two weeks with a hamstring injury. He was listed as questionable for Monday's game. His playing time was further reduced after his back locked up during the contest.

The running back touched the ball on every one of his nine snaps. He finished with seven carries for 62 yards and two receptions for 9 yards. He became the first NFL starter in the past 20 seasons to play at least nine offensive snaps and record a touch on all of them.

Coach Nick Sirianni said the staff prioritized health before activating Barkley. Sirianni noted that the medical team felt the player was ready to go. The coach added that Barkley likely would have played every snap if not for the coaching staff slowing him down.

Barkley tweaked his back on a 29-yard run in the first quarter. He said the issue got progressively worse after that play. He left the field immediately after his first-quarter touchdown run to use the sideline exercise bike. He also spent time in the medical tent and stretched with trainers on the bench. His final snap of the game came in the third quarter.

The Eagles have lost several running backs to injury this season. Will Shipley, Tank Bigsby, and Carson Steele are on injured reserve. Dameon Pierce exited the fourth quarter with an undisclosed injury. Elijah Mitchell, elevated from the practice squad for the game, handled the remaining running duties.

Barkley said his hamstring feels great and does not expect the back issue to sideline him long. He deferred to the training staff for a final call on his status for next week.