Reports emerged Thursday morning that former Penn State running back [autotag]Saquon Barkley[/autotag], hitting free agency for the first time in his career, has mutual interest in joining the Philadelphia Eagles.
Of course, the Eagles the NFC East rival of Barkley’s former team, the New York Giants, but they can offer him a chance to play in front of more family and friends. Barkley would also get to run behind the most talented offensive line of his career even following this week’s retirement of center Jason Kelce. That would likely be something that would greatly interest an oft-injured player like Barkley.
Howard Eskin of 94.1 WIP Philadelphia suggests the Eagles are looking for a complete back who can be dynamic in both the running and receiving game. Barkley would fit that bill quite well.
"I didn't believe, but I checked it and they do have interest in Saquon Barkley…I think they're trying to work on something that would not be fully guaranteed. He's not going to get—a ton."
"I think they're looking for a RB that can also catch the football."
— @howardeskin https://t.co/RfIApIe1FY pic.twitter.com/pcwaMU4tMX
— SPORTSRADIO 94WIP (@SportsRadioWIP) March 7, 2024
Eskin notes that a Barkley and Eagles contract might benefit both sides. A shorter contract where the Eagles get an explosive ball carrier who can change the dynamic of their offense that sputtered through the second half of the season while Barkley, if agreeable to a shorter deal, will get the chance to reset his value if he can put up big numbers in Philly.
Barkley may also enjoy the opportunity to make the Giants pay for a relationship that did not end smoothly over the last two years. Whatever happens on Monday when the NFL’s free agency negotiation window opens, Barkley and Eagles will be a storyline to watch.