Sources: Eagles RB Barkley expected to practice, in line to play vs. Cowboys

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley is expected to return to practice on Thursday and is in line to play Monday night against the Dallas Cowboys, sources told NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, giving a lift to an offense operating without star quarterback Jalen Hurts.

Hurts is out for the season because of blood clots in his lungs, leaving the Eagles thin at the skill positions. Barkley exited early in the first quarter of a Week 4 loss to the Los Angeles Rams with a hamstring injury and has been sidelined for the past two games.

"I would love to play Monday night," Barkley said this week, making clear his eagerness to return for the rivalry matchup.

With Tank Bigsby (abdomen) and Will Shipley (foot) both on injured reserve, Philadelphia has been down to its fourth-string running back in recent weeks, making Barkley's potential return especially timely.

The star back has appeared in four games this season, rushing 36 times for 182 yards at an average of 5.1 yards per carry. Left tackle Jordan Mailata called it a "morale boost" to see Barkley back on the practice field.

The Eagles have also dealt with significant injuries along the offensive line, with Lane Johnson retired, Cam Jurgens traded and Landon Dickerson sidelined by a knee issue. On defense, edges Nolan Smith Jr., Jalyx Hunt and Jonathan Greenard are all dealing with injuries, though defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said he is hopeful Greenard can face the Cowboys.