The New York Giants and their fans were dealt a major blow on Sunday when a source told the Associated Press that star running back Saquon Barkley had suffered a sprained right ankle in the team’s 32-31 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Barkley, who was the second overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, had been having a stellar season for the Giants, leading the team in rushing yards and touchdowns. He had already rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored eight touchdowns in just 10 games.
The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter when Barkley was tackled by Bucs defensive tackle Vita Vea. He was carted off the field and did not return to the game. Afterward, head coach Pat Shurmur said that Barkley had suffered an ankle injury and that he would be further evaluated.
The Giants have yet to provide an official update on Barkley’s condition, but the AP source said that he had suffered a sprained ankle. If that is indeed the case, it could mean that Barkley will miss a few weeks of action.
The Giants are already without starting quarterback Eli Manning, who was benched earlier this season in favor of rookie Daniel Jones. Without Barkley in the backfield, the Giants offense could be in serious trouble.
The Giants will now have to rely on their other running backs, Wayne Gallman and Elijhaa Penny, to step up in Barkley’s absence. They will also need Jones to continue his impressive play if they are to have any chance of making a playoff run.
Barkley’s injury is a huge blow to the Giants and their fans, but they will have to hope that he can make a speedy recovery and return to the field soon.
