New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, who has missed four weeks with a high ankle sprain, has been a full participant in practice this week, but despite the positive signs, refuses to commit to a Sunday return against the Arizona Cardinals.
“I feel pretty good. I’m taking it day-by-day. This week of practice, obviously you guys all know that I’ve been fully participating and feeling good. But I’m still taking it day-by-day,” Barkley told reporters on Thursday with an ear-to-ear smile. “I’m going to trust my teammates, trust the process, trust the trainers and just take it day-by-day.”
Barkley was obviously playing coy and will play on Sunday barring an unexpected setback, but in mirroring head coach Pat Shurmur, he refuses to reveal any additional information as it relates to his injury.
Initially, the superstar back was expected to miss upwards of eight weeks, but from the onset, Barkley guaranteed to beat the timetable and return “10 times better.”
How did he do it? He says it’s a mentality.
“People call me a superhero or whatever, but it’s a lot of hard work,” Barkley said. “Yes, I’m a fast healer, but a lot of it is mental.”
After dropping two straight games, the Giants and rookie quarterback Daniel Jones will be relying heavily on a suddenly healthy Barkley, who becomes the immediate focal point of any opposing defense.
“I think you have to account for another person when I’m playing,” Barkley said matter-of-factly.
If the Giants can somehow get wide receiver Sterling Shepard (concussion) back for Sunday, it will be the first time this entire season the team’s offense is at full strength.
