Saquon Barkley: Is He Worth the Hype? 2025 Fantasy Football Outlook
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Saquon Barkley is generating massive buzz heading into the 2025 NFL season and fantasy football drafts. After a record-breaking year with the Philadelphia Eagles, culminating in a Super Bowl title and a lucrative contract extension, everyone's wondering if he can repeat his performance. But is he truly worth the first overall pick in your fantasy draft?
Barkley's Dominant 2024 Season
Let's recap Barkley's incredible 2024 season. He rushed for a combined 2,504 yards including playoffs, shattering Terrell Davis' previous record. He also racked up 13 rushing touchdowns, a career-best. His explosiveness was undeniable, with 17 runs of 20+ yards. He was a key component in the Eagles' Super Bowl run, consistently turning short gains into explosive plays.
Why the Hesitation on a No. 1 Pick?
Despite his stellar performance, there are reasons to be cautious about drafting Barkley as the top pick. His workload last year was immense, with 482 touches, including a staggering 436 carries. History shows that running backs with that kind of volume often experience a decline the following season. The wear and tear takes a toll.
Workload Concerns and Historical Trends
Barkley's 436 carries put him in the top six for most rush attempts by a running back since 1970. That's a lot of punishment. While he showed no signs of slowing down last year, the risk of injury or decreased performance due to fatigue is a legitimate concern. Consider the track record of other backs who've had similar workloads; it's not always pretty.
Where Does Barkley Rank Among His Peers?
While some rankings have Barkley as the top running back in the league, others place him lower than expected. Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranked him #22 overall, a controversial placement considering his accomplishments. Derrick Henry, despite being 31, is still performing at a high level. He rushed for 1,921 yards last season. The debate about who is the better fantasy pick will continue until the season begins.
The Verdict: Round 1 Material, But Proceed with Caution
Saquon Barkley is undoubtedly a first-round talent. His explosiveness, receiving ability, and role in a potent Eagles offense make him a valuable asset. However, the concerns about workload and historical trends warrant caution. Don't blindly draft him at No. 1 overall. Weigh the risks and consider other elite options. If you can snag him later in the first round, he's a steal. But at the very top, the risk might outweigh the reward.