Barkley (ankle) has been ruled out for Thursday's game at New England.
There was hope Barkley would be able to return just two and a half weeks after suffering a high ankle sprain, but the Giants won't press their luck with the workhorse running back. With No. 2 option Wayne Gallman (concussion) also sidelined, the backfield will be headed by Jon Hilliman and Elijhaa Penny in Week 6. Barkley will set his sights on returning Oct. 20 for a matchup with the Cardinals.