Saquon Barkley surpasses the 2,000-yard milestone as the Eagles secure the NFC East title.

Eagles running back Saquon Barkley achieved a remarkable milestone on Sunday, becoming only the ninth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a single season. This achievement occurred during the fourth quarter of a decisive 41-7 victory against the Dallas Cowboys, a win that secured the NFC East Division title for the Eagles. "As a fan of the game and the running back position, reaching this milestone and joining the ranks of eight other backs whom I respect and some of whom I grew up watching is incredibly meaningful," Barkley stated while wearing an NFC East champion hat for the first time in his career. "However, I recognize that this accomplishment would not have been possible without my team. Greatness is a collective effort." With one game remaining in the season, Barkley is merely 101 yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson's NFL record for rushing yards in a season. The coaching staff opted to keep Barkley in the game during the fourth quarter, despite the significant lead. He was given the ball on five consecutive plays, culminating in a 23-yard run down the left side that pushed him past the 2,000-yard mark. After this achievement, Barkley received a congratulatory pat from lineman Mekhi Becton and a hug from offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.

Coach Nick Sirianni subsequently called a timeout, allowing his teammates to celebrate with Barkley as the fans erupted into "MVP" chants. "It's a testament to him, coming to a new team in his first year with high expectations. He is an exceptionally talented football player and a great teammate," remarked right tackle Lane Johnson. "I was thrilled for him." Following his milestone, Barkley was substituted by Kenneth Gainwell. He concluded the game with 167 yards on 31 carries and is now just 101 yards away from breaking Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards.

Saquon Barkley achieved a significant milestone on Sunday, becoming the ninth player in NFL history to rush for a minimum of 2,000 yards in a single season. With the division title secured and the likelihood of obtaining the No. 1 seed in the NFC appearing slim, a pertinent question arises: Will he have the opportunity to pursue Eric Dickerson's record in the regular-season finale against the New York Giants? Head Coach Nick Sirianni must consider the balance between allowing Barkley the chance to attain this exceptional record and safeguarding his health as the team prepares for the postseason.

"I must always prioritize what is best for the football team in order to achieve our objectives," Sirianni remarked. "There are many factors for me to contemplate."

In contrast, Johnson expressed that the team had successfully met its goal of exceeding 2,000 rushing yards and proposed that the starters should rest during Week 18, adhering to the principle that it is "better to be safe than sorry." Left tackle Jordan Mailata, however, indicated that he would advocate for the starters to participate in the game against New York, even if it holds no significance for playoff positioning, although he seemed uncertain about whether Sirianni would agree to this approach.

Saquon Barkley achieved a significant milestone on Sunday, becoming the ninth player in NFL history to rush for a minimum of 2,000 yards in a single season. As the division title is secured and the likelihood of obtaining the No. 1 seed in the NFC appears slim, the pressing question arises: Will he have the opportunity to pursue Eric Dickerson's record in the regular-season finale against the New York Giants? Head Coach Sirianni faces the challenge of balancing Barkley's pursuit of this rare achievement with the necessity of preserving his health for the upcoming postseason.

"I must always prioritize what is best for the football team in order to achieve our objectives," Sirianni remarked. "There is much to consider."

"This is a chance to make history," Mailata commented. "We haven't specifically discussed the Giants for next week, but there was a collective sense that if we didn't seize the moment today, we might miss out. The coach has yet to provide clarity on the situation. We will see."

Barkley expressed his willingness to support whatever decision Sirianni makes. "I am in favor of whatever he decides," Barkley stated. "If he chooses to pursue the record, I will be ready. Conversely, if he opts to rest and prepare for the playoffs, I fully support that as well. My goal is to achieve something remarkable. While breaking a record is significant, I aspire to see a banner raised. I believe we all share that ambition."

With this victory, the Eagles completed their first season sweep of the Cowboys since 2011. This marks the 20th consecutive season without a repeat champion in the NFC East, establishing the longest streak in NFL history. Philadelphia accomplished this feat while utilizing their second and third-string quarterbacks.

Kenny Pickett started in place of Jalen Hurts, who sustained a concussion against the Washington Commanders the previous week. A New Jersey native and lifelong Eagles supporter, Pickett delivered a commendable performance (10 of 15, 143 yards, 2 total touchdowns) despite playing with injured ribs and having to leave the game following several hard hits during the opening series of the second half.