What It Means:

Barkley has already been ruled out for tonight's game against the San Francisco 49ers, but told Rooks he is optimistic about his chances to return in Week 4 after the long week of rest. We've seen high ankle sprains severely limit otherwise outstanding NFL players in the past -- including Barkley himself -- so this will absolutely be a situation worth monitoring. The star running back was notably not placed on the injured reserve, which would have required him to sit out for the next four games. It's a small comfort, but it does imply that the team expects him to return sooner rather than later.

Barkley will try his best to return to the field as soon as possible, but in the meantime teammate Matt Breida will be expected to carry the load for the Giants. Our models project Breida for 7 fantasy points against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 3.