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Newsweek
25 minutes ago
- Sport
- Newsweek
Eagles' Saquon Barkley Sends Clear Message on Personal Goals
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Will Saquon Barkley be gunning for another 2,000-yard season in 2025? The Philadelphia Eagles running back had a straightforward response to that idea on Wednesday. "If it's in the cards again, it is. If not, it's not," he told reporters. Barkley could make history in 2025 by becoming the first player to ever have back-to-back 2,000-yard seasons. With so many great running backs coming before him, Barkley understands why former greats have struggled to repeat as 2K rushers. "Why is it so hard for a 2,000 rusher to do it again? Because it's so hard to do it in general," Barkley said. "There's only nine of us to have ever done it." Read More: Jalen Hurts Reacts to Viral Narrative About Eagles' Super Bowl Ring Barkley recently looked over the list again, as he signed a helmet that was decorated with those runners' signatures. In the process, he appreciated just how surreal his 2024 season was. Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field on December 29, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field on December 29, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania."I got to sign a helmet the other day where it was every 2,000-yard rusher, and the crazy thing is, that would never be able to happen again with OJ passing away," Barkley said. "The reason why it's hard to do it twice is because it's hard to it the first time, and it's a crazy thing to even mention with those guys." Barkley appeared in 16 games in 2024. He took on 345 carries for 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns. Considering he sat out for the Eagles' Week 17 battle, there is an assumption that Barkley would've made NFL history, beating out Eric Dickerson's 2,105-yard season, which took place in 1984. Even without the record on his resume, Barkley stamps his name in the history books, alongside Hall of Famers. OJ Simpson, Barry Sanders, Terrell Davis, Jamal Lewis, Chris Johnson, Adrian Peterson, Derrick Henry, and Dickerson all share the honor with Barkley. While the Eagles obviously hope Barkley can mirror that production next year, the running back made it clear that's not the goal he has on his mind. "2,000 yards is not the goal. It's winning the Super Bowl and going out there and performing at a high level," Barkley stated. "I didn't come in with the mindset last year to rush for 2,000 yards. It kind of just happened. So, just stay in the moment, take care of the little things, be consistent with my process, and be obsessive with my process, and make sure nothing's non-negotiable." For more Philadelphia Eagles and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
New York Times
5 hours ago
- Sport
- New York Times
Cowboys camp observations: CeeDee Lamb sounds motivated for big season
OXNARD, Calif. — No one is more excited to be at training camp than CeeDee Lamb. The Dallas Cowboys star wide receiver wasn't at the four-week California portion of last year's camp as he was holding out for a new contract. Following Wednesday's practice, Dallas' second of camp, Lamb sounded like a player extremely motivated to have a big year. He also looked the part during the team drill portion on the field. Advertisement 'I feel like the league knows what happens when I'm healthy and I have Dak (Prescott) for a whole season,' Lamb said. 'But, if you don't, I will happily show you what it's going to be like this year, honestly. I'm a dominant receiver. I don't like to speak highly of myself, but I can't wait to show you guys.' The Cowboys' defense, without top cornerback DaRon Bland while he attended the birth of his child, had very little success when Prescott looked Lamb's way Wednesday. This clip showcases some of what the four-time Pro Bowler put on display, including a new celebration with recently acquired wide receiver George Pickens. CeeDee Lamb 👀 — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 23, 2025 Here are some other highlights, observations and takeaways from the first two days of training camp. No pads and no tackling mean the offense should have the upper hand. But the defense has done an excellent job of knocking the ball out and causing turnovers. Second-year DE Marshawn Kneeland had the most notable takeaway so far, dropping into coverage to intercept Prescott in what could have been a pick six situation. Takeaways are a major emphasis under new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. So far, the fruits of their labor have been on display. Despite also being the offensive play caller, head coach Brian Schottenheimer has been thrilled with what he's seen from the defense in that area. 'I get excited,' he said. 'I'll put it out there right now. You guys know me, I don't mind making bold predictions, but I think we're going to be one of the top takeaway teams in the league on defense. Matt Eberflus and his staff have done an incredible job. If you watch their individuals and what they do, it's all what? Ball drills. But what I saw yesterday was great intentionality. We can't wrap up right now, we're kind of tagging off, but the intentional punch that these guys do and the focus and you see their eyes on the ball. Advertisement 'They're going to make us better offensively by doing it. … I'm excited about what this defense is going to do in terms of taking the ball away. Why does that excite you? It creates momentum and we obviously have to go out there and capitalize on that momentum. But my expectation is because it's the No. 1 thing we talk about in our football mantra, is we have to win the turnover battle.' Micah Parsons is the obvious leader of the edge rusher group. But even with him not participating because of his contract situation, there looks to be plenty of defensive end depth. Veteran Dante Fowler, rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku and Kneeland have all flashed at different times. Add to the mix Sam Williams, who many are expecting to have a breakout season. Watching Parsons throughout individual drills Wednesday, it seems pretty clear that he's not enjoying just being an observer. Micah Parsons watching defensive line drills — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 23, 2025 Injured defenders LB DeMarvion Overshown, CB Trevon Diggs, CB Shavon Revel Jr. and CB Josh Butler have all been working off to the side with athletic trainers during practice. Most eyes have been on Lamb and Pickens the first two days. There haven't been any major highlights, but those are likely when the pads come on Sunday. 'He's an incredible athlete, an incredible football player,' Lamb said of Pickens. 'His ability to go up and get the ball, you guys haven't seen it yet. But those days are literally coming. He's like a caged animal. And so am I.' Dak to George Pickens — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 22, 2025 Backup QB Joe Milton's arm strength and athleticism have been on display. With Prescott being in his 10th season, it's highly unlikely he will do much, if anything, during the preseason. That's when Milton will really get an opportunity to show off his arm and running ability, when needed. Cooper Rush was a more polished veteran backup, but Milton has a much higher upside. It should be fun to see how he progresses throughout camp and the preseason. Advertisement Javonte Williams has looked like the best of the running back group. Miles Sanders has also had impressive runs. However, it's tough to read too much into the position until everyone is in pads. Returner/wide receiver KaVontae Turpin has had several opportunities to carry the football and has also looked good in that area. Schottenheimer said he's working to prevent the offense from being 'static.' What has been on display so far are more pre-snap shifts and motions. There's also been more work with Prescott under center. When asked about that, Schottenheimer said there will still be plenty of quarterback work in shotgun and pistol formations, and even some wildcat. But look for more under-center snaps this season compared to previous years. KaVontae Turpin — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 22, 2025 Tight ends Jake Ferguson and Brevyn Spann-Ford both looked good in the passing game Wednesday. Each had multiple catches. As was the case throughout organized team activities and minicamp, the energy level is noticeable, especially with music blaring throughout practices. The celebrations after big plays have also been noticeable. These are things that Schottenheimer has clearly tried to emphasize since being hired as head coach in January. The crowds have been similar to last year, down from previous seasons. There are probably multiple contributing factors, from last year's disappointing season to the team's lack of playoff success and frustration with team owner and general manager Jerry Jones. Stands are pretty empty for the Dallas Cowboys' first training camp practice — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 22, 2025
Newsweek
11 hours ago
- Sport
- Newsweek
Dallas Cowboys Star Gushes Over New Addition George Pickens
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Heading into the 2025 season, the Dallas Cowboys are eager to return to prominence in the NFC. They made some notable roster upgrades in the offseason, and one key name seems to be fitting in just fine. Following a rocky tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cowboys decided to roll the dice and trade for wide receiver George Pickens. Though the off-field drama is a cause for concern, his talent on the outside is undeniable. Dallas is hoping the change of scenery will do him well as he forms one of the NFL's top receiver duos. Through his first few days of training camp, Pickens seems to be fitting in with his new team. One player who is very excited to have him around is star receiver CeeDee Lamb. Following Wednesday's action, he had nothing but great things to say about his new partner. Utilize the bet365 bonus code WEEK365 to activate a welcome bonus for Cowboys-Steelers, where Pittsburgh WR George Pickens is one of the most popular picks to score a touchdown. Utilize the bet365 bonus code WEEK365 to activate a welcome bonus for Cowboys-Steelers, where Pittsburgh WR George Pickens is one of the most popular picks to score a read: NFL Insider Reveals Shocking Update on Dallas Cowboys Star "I'm glad he's here. He knows I love him," Lamb told reporters. "I tell him every day that I'm happy for him. I hope we go together for X amount of years. I don't care. I just know we're not fitting to do this for (only) one." CeeDee Lamb on George Pickens: 'I'm glad he's here. He knows I love him. I tell him every day that I'm happy for him. I hope we go together for X amount of years. I don't care. I just know we're not fitting to do this for (only) one.' — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 23, 2025 Later on, Lamb raved about Pickens' abilities on the field and how he can't wait for them to showcase their talents in a game setting. "He's an incredible athlete, an incredible football player," Lamb continued. "His ability to go up and get the ball, you guys haven't seen it yet. But those days are literally coming. He's like a caged animal. And so am I." CeeDee Lamb on George Pickens: 'He's an incredible athlete, an incredible football player. His ability to go up and get the ball, you guys haven't seen it yet. But those days are literally coming. He's like a caged animal. And so am I.' — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 23, 2025 Also read: Cowboys Standouts Named Among NFL's Top Homegrown Duos Early on in his career, Lamb was flanked by another high-level receiver in Amari Cooper. However, that changed when Dallas decided to trade him to the Cleveland Browns in 2022. Now, Lamb once again has a viable running mate on the outside to help make life miserable for opposing defenses on a nightly basis. With Dak Prescott returning from injury, the Cowboys are sure to return to doing most of their offensive damage in the air. Before getting hurt, Prescott was putting up MVP-level numbers with Lamb as his primary target. Now armed with another dynamic receiver, he has more than enough firepower to put up big numbers in 2025. Entering a contract year, Pickens has a lot riding on this new chapter of his career. Based on Lamb's comments, he seems poised to change the narrative about him in the NFL. For more Dallas Cowboys and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb out to remind the NFL of his dominance
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is considered among the top wide receivers in the NFL but after what could be considered a down season for his standard last year, he's ready to get back to dominance. Limited to just 15 games in the 2024 season, Lamb finished the year with 101 receptions, 1,194 receiving yards, and 6 touchdowns, a big decrease from the previous year. In 2023, Lamb had the best season of his career, grabbing 135 receptions, 1,749 receiving yards, and 12 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the league's best at his position. While he was caught up in a contract controversy during training camp last season, Lamb enters this year with a set contract and the same can be said for his quarterback Dak Prescott, and the veteran receiver believes there will be a big payoff this season. Speaking to the media after training camp practice this week, Lamb told the team website that he is prepared to show that he's one of the league's most dominant receivers. "I feel like the league knows what happens when I'm healthy and I have Dak for a whole season," Lamb told "But if you don't, I will happily show you what it's going to be like this year. Honestly, I'm a dominant receiver. I don't like to speak highly of myself, but I can't wait to show you guys." Coming in with no contract concerns and a clean bill of health, Lamb's confidence is apparent as he prepares for the 2025 season. He'll have plenty of chemistry with Prescott, but they'll work under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer who is in first season with the team.
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Cowboys spending $35 million on receivers in 2025, depth may finally get bang for buck
The Dallas Cowboys have boasted a top-five receiver in CeeDee Lamb, but they haven't been able to pair him with formidable, complimentary weapons. Over the last two seasons, the former first-round pick with the $136 million contract has recorded 236 receptions for 2,943 yards and 18 touchdowns, all while entire defenses focused on him, and with Cooper Rush starting nearly 25% of those games. Lamb is by far the biggest share of the $35 million Dallas is spending on the position in 2025. Lamb is on Tier 1 of receiver rankings, right alongside Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase, but while those players enjoy the benefits of Jordan Addison, Tee Higgins and other co-workers, Dallas drafted the position late, if at all, and only added UFL standouts, and late-career trade targets, looking for the rest of the receiving core to work itself out without success. The top guy has delivered through it all. The addition of George Pickens — a valid, outside X receiver who is the best in the NFL at the go route helps alleviate pressure on Lamb while opening up the offense. He will ensure opposing safeties play back to protect against home runs, opening up the underneath routes for everyone else. Pickens also impacts the run game, not only by keeping safeties back, but also by his tremendous blocking ability. This duo could battle for the best in the NFL by season's end. Jalen Tolbert, Jonathan Mingo, and KaVontae Turpin will battle for snaps at the third receiver spot. Turpin is the easiest lock to make the 53-man roster. He is an All-Pro return man, and his impact as a receiver has improved every year. He went from two targets to 18, and then 52 in his third season. With a more modern offense that aims to open things up for its pass catchers, Turpin could emerge as an exceptional playmaker alongside Lamb and Pickens. Mingo was acquired in a trade with the Carolina Panthers last season, and could be the option who offers the most significant upside to the offense; a weird thing to say about a player who has never had a success rate over 33% and hasn't caught a touchdown pass. He is 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds, and has put himself in a position to make impactful plays multiple times, just to be let down by his quarterback with an uncatchable pass. He was a second-round pick for a reason; the tools are all there, and he is also a great run blocker. A third receiver who is a top-notch blocker and has a chance at making big plays in the passing game could make Dallas unstoppable. Tolbert led the team in touchdowns in 2024 (7) and should have a better role as the third receiving option. He doesn't bring the dynamism of Turpin or the blocking of Mingo, but Dak Prescott trusts him, and before the QB went out for the season, he was on pace for 64 catches for 750 yards. Those are the five receivers who are locks to make the 53-man roster, but Dallas could bring on a sixth option, and that is where the roster battle comes into play. Jalen Brooks played nearly 40% of the offensive snaps and over 50% of the special teams snaps in 2024, and that familiarity could help him secure a roster spot in 2025. He is a redundancy as a tall outside receiver with Pickens and Mingo already on the roster. Ryan Flournoy has the same issue. He played less than Brooks did in 2024, and he isn't as good a receiving threat as Pickens or Mingo, so how will he get snaps? Traeshon Holden and Jalen Cropper are undrafted free agents who would have to have unbelievable training camps to have a chance at making the 53-man roster. Parris Campbell is a wildcard because he brings elements that Turpin does, but in a 6-foot, 200-pound frame with experience as a true receiver. He has always had the talent, but hasn't found a way to stay healthy. In six seasons, he has only two with double-digit games played. Only one survives from this group, at best, to make the roster, so this is a war more than just a battle, and nobody seems to have a significant edge going in. The practice squad seems to be the most likely path for any of them to eventually see the field for Dallas. You can find Mike Crum on Twitter @cdpiglet or Bluesky @ This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys' top 5 WRs seem locked in, battle for WR6 and beyond ensues
