The NFL levied a significant fine against Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley this week stemming from a run during the Eagles' 20-16 win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 6.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the league fined Barkley $45,020 for unnecessary roughness, as he lowered his head and illegally led with his helmet as part of a first-quarter run:

Barkley, who was not penalized on the play, went on to finish the game with 47 rushing yards on 18 carries, as well as two receptions for seven yards.

After watching him star with the NFC East rival New York Giants for six seasons, the Eagles signed Barkley to a three-year, $37.75 million contract in free agency this past offseason.

The 27-year-old is off to a strong start through five games, rushing for 482 yards and four touchdowns on 91 carries, while also catching 14 passes for 92 yards and a score.

If he can maintain it, Barkley's 5.3 yards per carry this season would be a career high, surpassing the 5.0 yards per carry he averaged as a rookie in 2018.

Despite Barkley's play, the Eagles have had an uneven start to the season, going 3-2. That is partly due to the fact that wide receiver's A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith have missed time due to injury, but both played in last week's win over Cleveland.

The Eagles are a half-game behind the surprise NFC East leaders in the Washington Commanders, who are 4-2 thanks to the excellent play of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.

They will look to keep pace in Week 7 with a key divisional road game against the 2-4 Giants.

It will mark the first time Barkley plays against his former team, and given that he decided to sign with a divisional rival in free agency, it is difficult to envision him getting a warm reception from the Big Blue fanbase.