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New York Giants' running back Saquon Barkley claimed another NFL rookie record in their Week 17 36-35 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. With his second reception of the game, Barkley had his 89th catch of the year and surpassed Reggie Bush, who had 88 receptions in 2006, his rookie season.
With his 2nd reception today, and 89th of the season, Saquon Barkley leapfrogs Reggie Bush (2006) for the most receptions by a rookie running back in NFL history. pic.twitter.com/U2uIV1mUmI
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) December 30, 2018
Barkley, the second overall pick in last year's draft, will get serious consideration for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, along with Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield, the first pick. Including his 109 rushing yards, 33 receiving yards, and one touchdown from today's matchup, this season Barkley ran for 1,307 yards, he had 721 receiving yards, and scored 14 total touchdowns.
What makes Barkley's season even more impressive, is the fact that he accrued all these statistics running behind an offensive line that Football Outsiders ranked as number 27 in the league. He's showcased an ability to make something out of nothing time and time again.
Barkley's athleticism shows why Dave Gettleman, the Giants' general manager, was so high on him.
However, some Giants fans argue that the team would have been better off had they drafted a quarterback, as Eli Manning would be entering his 16th season and Barkley's success didn't equal team success. The Giants went 5-11 this season.
Regardless of the alternatives, Barkley has had one of the most impressive rookie seasons in NFL history. Barkley became the third rookie to eclipse 2,000 total yards as well, joining the likes of Edgerrin James and Eric Dickerson. Barkley also broke the Giants rookie rushing touchdown record during today's game, with his 11th of the season. The previous record holder was Bill Paschal, who ran for 10 touchdowns in 1943.
