While it’s unlikely Barkley will match the 2024 numbers exactly, some analysts anticipate a resurgence. One notable forecast suggested Barkley could bounce back in 2026, returning to higher efficiency and explosiveness than in 2025. The expectation is that while he may not hit his 2024 benchmark again, his production could rebound due to improved efficiency and a sustained impact when carrying the ball.
A key factor behind Barkley’s reduced output last season was a drop in efficiency. He averaged 5.8 yards per carry in 2024 but fell to 4.1 yards per carry in 2025, contributing to the overall decline in production.
As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, the combination of a healthier Hurts and the potential return to form by Barkley could enhance the offense’s ceiling. If Barkley regains his prior burst and remains efficient on the ground, he could provide a substantive boost to the running game and play-action opportunities, helping to balance what the passing game can achieve with Hurts at the helm.
In the broader context, discussions around Barkley’s trajectory emphasize that while a repeat of the peak 2024 performance may be unlikely, a resurgence in efficiency and sustained high-impact play remains a realistic expectation. The coming season will reveal how these dynamics unfold and how the offense integrates any improved run-game production with Hurts’ development and the team’s offensive framework.