Super Bowl winner Tony Dungy picks sides over Eagles' opinion-splitting decision on Saquon Barkley

Saquon Barkley's quest to break the NFL's rushing yards record with the Philadelphia Eagles has come to an abrupt end. The running back will sit out the Week 18 game against the New York Giants on Sunday as Eagles coach Nick Sirianni wants to rest him before the playoffs. While many fans and analysts have had their say on Barkley missing an opportunity to get an individual NFL record, former Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy has tweeted his views about it.

Dungy, who won the Super Bowl as a player and a coach, quote-tweeted a fan on Thursday, urging the Eagles faithful to understand Philly's situation and avoid criticism aimed at Sirianni. He also explained how risking Barkley in a no-bearing game could be the difference between Philly winning or losing the Super Bowl.

"Because winning or losing game one could make a huge difference in your playoff position," Dungy tweeted. "It might determine if you make or miss the playoffs. Winning or losing this game definitely makes NO DIFFERENCE. Whether they win or lose they are playing a home playoff game next week.

"The NBA is resting players in meaningful games. The problem for the NFL is stretching the season out longer you’re going to have more of these decisions. If they go to 18 games or 20 games you’ll have more of these discussions."

Barkley has 2,005 rushing yards and will finish 101 rushing yards short of breaking the NFL's single-season rushing record set by Eric Dickerson in 1984. However, the Eagles superstar has become only the ninth RB in the NFL to eclipse 2,000 rushing yards.

The Eagles (13-3) have already clinched the NFC East. However, they have no chance of grabbing the No. 1 seed in the NFC, which is another reason why Barkley will be rested in Week 18.

A look at Saquon Barkley's incredible 2024 regular season run

NFL: Philadelphia Eagles RB Saquon Barkley - Source: Imagn

Saquon Barkley has been a revelation for the Eagles since signing with the franchise in the 2024 offseason. The RB racked up a league-high 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns on a league-leading 345 carries. He also contributed 278 yards and two TDs on 33 receptions across 16 games.

Notably, Barkley has recorded 10 100+ rushing yards games and one 200+ rushing yards game. He got another RB Pro Bowl selection, the third of his career.

The Eagles will want Barkley to deliver the goods in the playoffs when they chase a spot in the Super Bowl with a ruthless offense.