New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley entered this season with big expectations. The 2018 NFL AP Offensive Rookie of the Year had the most yards from scrimmage in football last year, and it seemed as though he was on the cusp of superstardom.

But Barkley suffered an ankle injury in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that would force him to miss New York's next three games. Though he would return well ahead of schedule to play in Week 7, things have been more of a struggle ever since.

Barkley told Dan Duggan of The Athletic that the impact of the injury has been more mental than physical.

The second-year back rushed for over 100 yards in each of the Giants' first two games. He has yet to top the 100-yard mark since, scoring just one rushing touchdown after returning in Week 7.

Some of this may stem from lack of opportunity. The Giants rank 31st in football in rushing attempts (282) and 26th in rushing yards (1,219) despite ranking closer to the middle of the pack in yards per carry (4.3).

The Giants turned back to Eli Manning at quarterback against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday, but Barkley still saw around the same usage, gaining 66 yards on 17 carries.

Saquon's aptitude for breaking a big play simply has not been there, though there has also been plenty of criticism of head coach Pat Shurmur for lacking creativity and ignoring obvious problems.

This season has not been as advertised for the Giants or their star running back, but Barkley will hope to close with a flourish in order to gain confidence heading into the offseason.