The New York Giants’ memorable 31-28 comeback win against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday came with a steep price. The team’s star running back Saquon Barkley sprained his ankle and is expected to miss several games as a result.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the MRI test on Barkley’s ankle showed an “ordinary” sprain. The 26-year-old Pro Bowler is expected to miss up to three weeks before being able to return to action.
Barkley got hurt with less than two minutes left in the game after getting his ankle stuck in a pile of players. Up to that point, he rushed for 63 yards and a touchdown while also adding six catches for 29 yards and a TD.
This is bad news for the Giants’ hopes of repeating last season’s run to the playoffs but also for Barkley’s hopes of landing a big contract extension next offseason. Barkley previously accepted a one-year deal from the Giants that saw him receive more money compared to what he would get on a franchise tag. He will become a free agent after the 2023 campaign.
With Barkley out, the Giants will lean on veteran Matt Breida to carry most of the load in the running game.
“I’ve been with Matt for quite some time, he knows our system,’’ said Giants’ head coach Brian Daboll. “He’s prepared every week as if he was the starter, and that’s what they all need to do. I’d say all three of the guys work really hard and prepare as if they’re going to play an entire game.’’
