Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Saquon Barkley Criticizes Joint Practices as Run Momentum Slows

8/21/2026

24 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Barkley Slams Joint Practices

Saquon Barkley said he hates joint practices at training camp.
Saquon Barkley became the ninth NFL player to rush for 2,000 yards in a season two years ago.
Jordan Mailata said fights during joint practices killed run-game momentum, noting Wednesday’s flow was better.
Barkley is expected to approach 2,000 rushing yards this season, up from 1,140 last year.

Summary

Eagles Preparation

Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said joint practices test plays against real opponents.
Head coach Nick Sirianni plans to keep joint practices for preparation value.
New offensive coordinator Sean Mannion will run the Eagles' wide zone scheme in joint sessions.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel broke up a scuffle during Thursday's special-teams drill.
The Eagles and Patriots will play a preseason game Saturday night at Gillette Stadium.

History

Historical Context

The NFL’s 2011 lockout, a 130-day work stoppage that began on March 11, forced owners to cancel the Hall of Fame Game and compress preseason preparations, leading teams such as the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles to adapt their training. That precedent shows how labor disputes shape practice intensity, a pattern echoed in today’s debates over Saquon Barkley’s workload.

1 of 3

Barkley Slams Joint Practices

Saquon Barkley said he hates joint practices at training camp.
Saquon Barkley became the ninth NFL player to rush for 2,000 yards in a season two years ago.
Jordan Mailata said fights during joint practices killed run-game momentum, noting Wednesday’s flow was better.
Barkley is expected to approach 2,000 rushing yards this season, up from 1,140 last year.

1 / 3