The New York Giants have struggled offensively in recent seasons, but they’ve had the advantage of having one of the NFL’s premier running backs in Saquon Barkley. However, Barkley’s tenure with the Giants is coming to an end as he’s set to join NFC East rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles, on a three-year contract potentially worth up to $46.75 million.
Insider Jordan Schultz revealed that Barkley’s decision to move to the Eagles was influenced not just by the team’s roster but also by the lack of an offer from the Giants. According to Schultz, the absence of a contract offer from the Giants was particularly telling for Barkley.
Despite being a key player for the Giants, Barkley was only given the non-exclusive franchise tag, while the team handed quarterback Daniel Jones a lucrative contract extension last offseason. This move was seen as somewhat insulting to Barkley by Schultz.
In his six NFL seasons, Barkley has earned Pro Bowl honors twice and has surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark three times. He came close to achieving this milestone again in 2023, accumulating 962 yards and six touchdowns on the ground despite missing three games. Additionally, Barkley has demonstrated his versatility as a dual-threat back, amassing 288 receptions, 2,100 receiving yards, and 12 receiving touchdowns in his professional career.
The allure of joining the Eagles was further enhanced by their strong offensive line and the presence of quarterback Jalen Hurts, known for his ability to extend plays with his legs. Moreover, Barkley’s upbringing in the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania, just north of Philadelphia, adds a personal connection to the move.
By securing Barkley’s signature, the Eagles have made a significant upgrade to their roster, addressing a key area of need following their struggles towards the end of the 2023 season.
