Saquon Barkley delivered an extraordinary season, capturing the NFL rushing crown and earning the title of Offensive Player of the Year with a franchise record of 2,005 yards in 16 games. His acquisition by the Philadelphia Eagles has raised significant discussions around the league, especially for the team that parted ways with him and for the Eagles, who broke character by offering him over $12 million annually—a decision many consider a “no-brainer.” Barkley’s presence in the Eagles’ backfield, alongside quarterback Jalen Hurts, has redefined their ground game strategy, making it a formidable force in the NFL.
Barkley's performance was nothing short of spectacular, highlighted by a 26-carry, 255-yard, two-touchdown game against the Rams in Week 12. He replicated this feat with a 205-yard, two-touchdown performance against the same team in an NFC divisional playoff game seven weeks later. Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton emphasized Barkley's ability to alter the course of a game with his running prowess, while the Washington Commanders made him their focal point entering the NFC title game. The Commanders acknowledged his threat, vocalizing respect for his talents before facing off.
Barkley's influence extends beyond individual games. His 2024 season has shifted perceptions regarding running backs' value, prompting teams to reconsider their draft and free agency strategies. As Barkley continues to perform at an elite level, with $14 million due in 2026—the final year of his current deal—his impact resonates across the league.
"I'd like to say he's exceeded expectations, but he's always been one of the best players I've ever seen whenever I've watched him," said Howie Roseman.
"And I have always known about what kind of person he is because it's not hard to find that out. So I'm really not surprised by any of this, and I don't say that in an arrogant way; it's based on who he is, nothing to do with me, because this is who he's always been," Roseman added.
"And I'm just glad everyone gets to see that," concluded Roseman.
Barkley's signing was initially met with some skepticism due to his injury history. However, his stellar performance over the past two seasons has silenced critics and inspired offenses to return to a more run-focused approach. An AFC executive remarked on this shift, noting that running backs are finally gaining recognition for their contributions to team success.
"It's about time running backs start getting credibility," stated an AFC executive.
"You won't sign an average back to big money, but you will sign an average quarterback to big money. Maybe that's because teams were getting to Super Bowls without an elite back. But with the evolution of the game, teams are returning to doing things we did best. We all know how big a part a running back is to an offense," the executive elaborated.
Barkley's unique blend of speed, power, and agility has earned him comparisons to some of the game's greatest athletes. A veteran scout described him as a "generational talent," highlighting his rare ability to change direction and make quick decisions on the field.
"Rare change of direction, spins, jump cuts, vision behind the line, seeing a safety and working it back — he has the quickness of a smaller back and the size of a big back," observed Dan Quinn.
"That's Myles Garrett, Saquon Barkley, guys like that," noted a scout.
"Very few should be mentioned in this space," the scout added.
The Eagles' dual-threat offense, featuring Barkley and Hurts operating behind a strong offensive line, has proven effective. This system maximizes Barkley's skills and has been instrumental in his standout performances.
"That dual-threat offense with the [run-pass option] behind that great offensive line has brought out the best in Saquon," commented a national NFL scout.
"When they signed him, the first thing I said is, 'He's going to have a monster year.' And he did," the scout affirmed.
Johnny Newton praised Barkley's ability to work cohesively with his teammates, emphasizing their discipline and communication on the field.
"Those guys work great together as a group. Really disciplined. They do their jobs at a high level. The way they stunt together, move together, communication pre-snap. Same page. It's like a routine, man," Newton said.
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