Eagles rely on Saquon Barkley’s return as Cowboys and Eagles clash in NFC East showdown

Saquon Barkley was cleared to return for the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night after missing two games with a hamstring injury sustained in Week 4. He participated in limited practice earlier in the week and was upgraded to full participation on Saturday. The Eagles opened the game with a 7-3 lead after Barkley scored an eight-yard touchdown on his third carry, following a 12-yard and a 29-yard gain on his first two touches.

Dallas responded with a 55-yard field goal by Brandon Aubrey, but a penalty for illegal formation left the Cowboys with a fourth-and-3 at the Philadelphia 32. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer chose to keep the points, giving Dallas a 3-0 lead after a 28-yard opening drive.

The matchup comes as both teams sit at 2-4 in the NFC East. The Eagles are without quarterback Jalen Hurts and key receivers DeVonta Smith and Dontayvion Wicks, while the Cowboys contend with inconsistent performances from receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.

"Saquon Barkley told me he feels good enough to give it a go tonight, but he will try to be smart about his return," ESPN reporter Lisa Salters said.

Philadelphia’s offensive line is expected to improve with the return of guard Landon Dickerson from injured reserve, providing Barkley with more support against a Dallas defense that has struggled to contain the run this season.