A dazzling afternoon for Saquon Barkley abruptly ended in disaster on Sunday after the Giants star running back exited against the Cardinals with an apparent ankle injury late in the game.
With New York driving downfield on second-and-13, Barkley took a handoff up the middle with 1:11 left in regulation and the game tied, 28–28. Barkley’s run was quickly stopped by Cardinals linebacker Krys Barnes, who wrapped Barkley up around his lower body before he barreled into a defensive lineman and awkwardly fell to his right side with his legs still upright.
After appearing to have his ankle caught underneath a pile of players, Barkley hobbled to his feet and immediately began limping, prompting the Giants medical staff to come out and escort him to the sideline.
Following the game, Barkley, who was unable to apply any pressure to his ankle, was transported via cart to undergo X-rays, according to The Athletic.
Saquon Barkley’s injury looks really bad. Damn. pic.twitter.com/rgeG7l9zG2
— Ben Cummins (@BenCumminsFF) September 17, 2023
Saquon Barkley was slow to get up and had to be helped off of the field after his latest carry. pic.twitter.com/6Td11ApcTH
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) September 17, 2023
While the extent of the oft-injured Barkley’s latest ailment remains unknown, it’s worth noting the 26-year-old was spotted having his ankle tapped up as he watched the remainder of the eventual 31–28 win from the sidelines.
Prior to exiting, Barkley ran for 63 yards and a touchdown, and added six receptions for 29 yards and a receiving score.
