New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley has struggled through injuries in recent years and it has called into question his value.
Already a criticized selection at No. 2 overall in 2018, Barkley’s lacking production in each of the previous two seasons has done little to sway his doubters. But one person who continues to express faith in Barkley’s long-term potential is Pro Football Hall of Famer Barry Sanders.
Speaking to TMZ Sports earlier this week, Sanders said he fully expects Barkley to rebound here in 2022.
“Every year in the NFL is a big year. Obviously he’s coming back from a big injury,” Sanders said. “I know Saquon a little bit and I think he’ll be all right.
“Being as young as he is . . . players bounce back from injury all the time. We saw that with Adrian Peterson just a few years ago. I have all the faith and confidence in Saquon.”
As far as Barkley’s unique athletic talent, Sanders says that never went away. Injuries may have slowed him down, but that’s only temporary.
“I know he has the right stuff to make it on the field. I’ve seen it,” Sanders added. “Good luck to him.”
The Giants and head coach Brian Daboll are certainly relying heavily on Barkley this season. And so far throughout camp, he has not disappointed. The 25-year-old doesn’t just look healthy, he looks explosive and primed for the sort of rebound year Sanders anticipates.
