Eagles expect Saquon Barkley back at practice, in line to face Cowboys

Saquon Barkley is expected to return to Philadelphia Eagles practice Thursday and is in line to play Monday against the Dallas Cowboys, Mike Garafolo reported, citing sources. The forecast would bring the team's lead back closer to game action after an injury-thinned stretch at the position, though Thursday's practice had not yet taken place when the report was posted.

The Eagles' backfield has been in flux. Earlier this week, Philadelphia waived Jaydon Blue and waived Carson Steele with an injury designation, while adding Elijah Mitchell to its practice squad. Will Shipley has been on injured reserve. Barkley's expected return therefore matters beyond one player's availability: the club has already changed the supporting group around him as it prepares for Dallas.

Monday's matchup also comes with Jalen Hurts sidelined for the season. Barkley's progress supplies a potential piece of stability as the Eagles work through both issues. His report says Barkley is in line to play, not that he has been activated or has completed a practice.

The next concrete checkpoint is whether Barkley actually takes part in Thursday's session and how Philadelphia lists him as preparations continue. For now, the development is an encouraging expectation ahead of the Cowboys game, not an official clearance. The Eagles' recent running-back moves and the quarterback absence make his possible return especially consequential for the offensive personnel available Monday night.