Cowboys Run Defense Struggles

The Dallas Cowboys' run defense has been the worst in the NFL this season.

Barkley Uncertain to Play

Going into this week, it appeared the Cowboys might catch a break for their game against the Philadelphia Eagles as running back Saquon Barkley was uncertain to play after missing each of the last two…

Barkley Expected to Play Monday

However, it's starting to look like that break isn't coming as NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported on Thursday that not only is Barkley expected to return to practice, he is expected to play Monday night.

“Eagles RB Saquon Barkley is expected to return to practice today and is in line to play Monday against the Cowboys, sources say. A lift for the team’s offense with a banged-up backfield and Jalen Hurts on the mend”

Eagles' QB Jalen Hurts Out for Season

This amounts to a huge lift for the Eagles who, as Garafolo noted, won't have quarterback Jalen Hurts for the rest of the season as he treats multiple blood clots in his lungs.

Eagles Sign Elijah Mitchell

The first sign Barkley would be back came on Tuesday when the Eagles released former Cowboys running back Jaydon Blue and signed Elijah Mitchell to the practice squad.

Eagles' Rushing Rank

The Eagles have been uncharacteristically bad at running the ball in 2026 as evidenced by their ranking 29th in rushing yards per game.

Barkley's Effectiveness

Even still, Barkley is averaging 5.1 yards per carry so it's not like he hasn't been effective when on the field.

Cowboys' Run Defense

Dallas has actually had success keeping Barkley in check in three of the last four games it has faced him but that one time saw Barkley rip off 167 yards in Week 17 of the…

Cowboys' Rushing Allowance

Over six games, Dallas is giving up a robust 149.8 rushing yards per game which ranks dead-last.