Saquon Barkley, after a notable six-season tenure with the New York Giants, is embarking on a new chapter in his NFL career, albeit within the familiar confines of the NFC East. The skilled running back has inked a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, as reported by CBS Sports HQ NFL Insider Josina Anderson. The deal, valued at $37.75 million, could escalate to as much as $46.75 million, contingent on Barkley achieving all set incentives, according to ESPN.
This contract signifies a substantial milestone for the 27-year-old Barkley. Had the Giants applied the franchise tag, Barkley would have earned $12.1 million in 2024. Opting instead for free agency, Barkley’s new agreement with the Eagles averages $12.58 million annually, including $26 million guaranteed. This positions him second in the NFL among running backs in terms of guaranteed funds, trailing only behind Christian McCaffrey.
Reacting to this significant career move, Barkley expressed his gratitude and excitement for the future through a social media post, thanking his supporters for their unwavering encouragement over the past six years.
Despite a challenging 2023 season marred by injuries, including a sprained ankle that sidelined him for three games, Barkley still managed to rush for 962 yards, placing him among the top 20 NFL rushers. Throughout his tenure with the Giants, Barkley amassed a total of 5,211 rushing yards, securing the fifth spot on the team’s all-time rushing list. Although Barkley had aspired to remain a “Giant for life,” negotiations did not culminate in a deal that would facilitate this wish.
Barkley’s transition to the Eagles introduces him to a team with a strong inclination towards the running game, a characteristic that has seen them rank in the top eight for rushing yards in the NFL over the past two seasons. The Eagles are set to benefit from Barkley’s dynamic ability on the ground, highlighted by his 23 carries of 30 yards or more since his rookie year in 2018—a feat surpassing the combined efforts of Eagles running backs during the same period.
Joining the Eagles also means Barkley will have the opportunity to face his former team, the Giants, twice each season, adding an intriguing layer to his career narrative and the storied rivalry between the two teams.