Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni expressed confidence that running back Saquon Barkley will excel in the team’s revamped offensive system in 2026. Despite a subpar performance in 2025 compared to his historic 2024 season, Barkley remains a top fantasy prospect due to expected changes in the offense. The Eagles are introducing more zone-blocking schemes influenced by the Shanahan coaching tree, led by new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion, which could rejuvenate Barkley’s production. At 29 years of age, Barkley’s health will be critical for a successful rebound after recording 1,140 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 280 carries last year, a drop from his league-leading 2,005 rushing yards in 2024.
Challenges in Barkley’s Recent Performance and Offensive Context
Barkley’s 2025 campaign reflected the Eagles’ offensive struggles, evidenced by poor metrics such as an average of 4.2 yards per rush, 1.52 yards before contact, and a negative total rushing Expected Points Added (EPA) near -24.81. These figures mark a downturn under Sirianni’s leadership, highlighting the running back’s and the offensive line’s difficulties. Additionally, the overall rushing success rate was just 39.1%, underscoring inefficiencies that impacted both team and fantasy outcomes. As the offense transitions, attractiveness remains for Barkley in fantasy football circles due to his workhorse role and the potential for enhanced scheme fit.
Uncertainty Surrounding A.J. Brown’s Future with the Eagles
Wide receiver A.J. Brown’s tenure with Philadelphia remains uncertain as the 2025 season’s end brings mutual interest but no guarantees for continuation. Head coach Nick Sirianni noted he
“can’t guarantee how anything is going to play out into next season,”
suggesting that Brown’s future is unresolved amid trade speculation. Brown, 28, has been vocal about his frustrations over offensive usage, which fueled rumors of a possible trade. As a three-time Pro Bowler with two 1,400-yard seasons, Brown was a critical offensive weapon alongside Barkley and quarterback Jalen Hurts. However, general manager Howie Roseman has indicated openness to offers, despite Brown’s significant cap hit in 2026, complicating his fantasy outlook.
Barkley’s Longevity and Fantasy Outlook Entering Age 29
Saquon Barkley’s first year with the Eagles was stellar, amassing nearly 2,300 yards from scrimmage and finishing third in MVP voting while securing a Super Bowl victory. The following season’s production slowed but remained impactful with 1,413 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns over 16 games. Barkley’s yards per carry sharply declined from 5.8 in 2024 to 4.1 in 2025, coinciding with over 800 total touches across two years. Age and workload raise concerns about potential decline, especially as the Eagles’ offensive line regressed in 2025. However, news of right tackle Lane Johnson’s planned return in 2026 offers optimism for improved run blocking and protection, which could sustain Barkley’s high fantasy value in the near term.
Lane Johnson’s Return Bolsters Offensive Line Prospects
Veteran right tackle Lane Johnson confirmed he will return for a 14th season with the Eagles, a significant boost for the offense. Johnson suffered a Lisfranc foot injury late in 2025 but has progressed in offseason rehab and aims to be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season. The Eagles will also have new offensive-line coaching leadership with Chris Kuper replacing Jeff Stoutland, likely bringing changes to blocking schemes. Johnson’s comeback is vital for both quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley, as a stronger offensive line could facilitate more effective rushing and passing attacks under the new coaching direction.
Tank Bigsby Emerges as a Valuable Handcuff
Running back Tank Bigsby, acquired midseason from Jacksonville, has positioned himself as a premier handcuff in Philadelphia with notable upside. While primarily deployed on special teams in 2025, Bigsby demonstrated his potential when given opportunities, such as a breakout 104-yard performance against the Giants. Over the latter part of the season, he accumulated 209 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns, proving his capability to contribute. With doubts about Barkley’s long-term future and a possible contract exit by next offseason, Bigsby stands as an intriguing dynasty league asset who could gain a larger workload, possibly ascending to a top-12 fantasy running back if Barkley’s role diminishes.
Jalen Hurts Faces Challenges After Decline in Rushing Output
Quarterback Jalen Hurts endured a disappointing 2025 season relative to his previous standards, especially in rushing production. Hurts completed 64.8% of passes for 3,224 yards and 25 touchdowns but saw his yards per attempt fall to a career-low 7.1. His rushing yards dropped to 421 with eight touchdowns, a significant decrease from his consistent streak of at least 600 rushing yards and double-digit rushing scores over the prior four years. The team’s change in offensive coordinator to Sean Mannion introduces hope for system adjustments that could revitalize Hurts’ production. Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounding A.J. Brown’s future could affect Hurts’ receiving corps and his own fantasy outlook moving forward.
DeVonta Smith Gains Importance Amid Eagle Receiver Changes
Wide receiver DeVonta Smith remained a consistent contributor in 2025 with 77 receptions, 1,008 yards, and four touchdowns, marking his third 1,000-yard season in four years. Smith’s reception and yardage totals were close to teammate A.J. Brown’s, illustrating a less pronounced gap between the two stars in Philadelphia’s receiving corps. Rumors of tension involving Brown have sparked trade speculation, heightening Smith’s value in dynasty leagues. Should Brown depart, Smith could rise as the team’s leading receiver and establish himself as a top-12 fantasy wideout for the 2026 season.
Current Status of Trade Discussions About A.J. Brown
Despite widespread speculation about A.J. Brown’s potential offseason trade, sources indicate the Eagles have not yet engaged in formal trade discussions. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, talks between the team and Brown since the 2025 season remain minimal. Brown appears calmer and more accepting of the current situation but voiced frustration over his usage in Philadelphia’s 2025 offense. Brown’s sizable $43.5 million cap hit for 2026 means any trade would require substantial return for the Eagles. While Brown expressed excitement about the upcoming season, a move to another team is not guaranteed to improve his fantasy value, emphasizing the uncertainty around his 2026 outlook.
Expectations and Opinions on A.J. Brown’s Trade Prospects
Zach Berman of The Athletic predicts that A.J. Brown will seek a trade during the offseason, with the Eagles likely securing strong compensation if they comply. Berman suggests the franchise should attempt to convince Brown to stay by demonstrating improvements to the offense and highlighting the potential for Brown to reclaim status as an elite NFL receiver. Brown’s history of two consecutive 1,400-yard seasons and 18 total touchdowns in 2022 and 2023 contrasts with his 2025 frustration, despite reaching 1,000 receiving yards for a fourth straight year. Misalignment with quarterback Jalen Hurts and inconsistent play render Brown’s future with the Eagles precarious, injecting volatility into his 2026 fantasy prospects.
A.J. Brown’s Decreasing Consistency Amid On-Field Frustrations
The 28-year-old wideout expressed dissatisfaction with his role in a stalled offense throughout 2025, impacting his on-field performances. Brown finished with 78 receptions on a team-high 121 targets, totaling 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns, securing a WR12 spot in half-PPR formats. Despite consistent yardage and scoring across multiple seasons, Brown posted a career-low average of 12.9 yards per catch in 2025. The tensions involving Brown, Hurts, and head coach Sirianni, alongside the possibility of a trade, contribute to Brown’s increasing unpredictability as a fantasy asset. His standing among WR1 options remains, but managers should monitor developments closely.
Saquon Barkley’s Recent Decline and Future Potential
Following his breakout 2024 season crowned by an Offensive Player of the Year award and a Super Bowl title, Barkley’s 2025 effort fell short of lofty expectations. He remained a three-time Pro Bowler but finished as the RB15 in half-PPR scoring with 1,140 rushing yards, seven touchdowns, and 37 receptions for 273 yards and two scores. The slump largely reflected the Eagles’ overall offensive downturn rather than Barkley’s ability alone. Still considered a top workhorse back, Barkley’s ability to regain elite fantasy status hinges on the offense restoring its 2024 level of effectiveness. This makes the 2026 system adjustments and health paramount to his future success.
